Keir Starmer is facing increasing pressure from numerous Labour MPs to step down, as calls for his resignation grow louder. Despite delivering a crucial speech on Monday to promise improvements, not all party members are convinced. The Prime Minister is now in a precarious position as he struggles to regain the support of his MPs while attempting to quell the threat of a rebellion.
Following his speech on Monday afternoon, former Foreign Office minister Catherine West urged fellow MPs to join her in demanding Starmer’s resignation, criticizing his pledges as inadequate and belated.
In recent days, key figures within No10 have publicly called for a change in leadership, including former Cabinet Office minister Josh Simons, who previously led the pro-Starmer think-tank Labour Together. Simons stated that Starmer had lost the trust of the nation and urged him to announce a timeline for his departure.
Chris Curtis, head of the Labour Growth Group, also expressed skepticism about Starmer’s proposed plan for addressing the country’s needs. Additionally, long-serving MP Clive Betts, with over three decades of experience, has added his voice to the calls for change.
Other prominent figures, such as former Cabinet member Louise Haigh, have indicated that Starmer will have to step down if he fails to improve, although they have not explicitly called for his resignation. Labour heavyweight Debbie Abrahams has set a deadline for Starmer to show progress by the end of the year.
There is speculation surrounding Angela Rayner and Wes Streeting as potential contenders for party leadership, with both individuals reportedly considering bids. Streeting has allegedly informed No10 of a contingency plan in case the Prime Minister’s authority weakens, but he is not currently planning a direct challenge.
Any challenger to Starmer would need support from 81 Labour MPs. Some members are hoping to delay any potential moves against Starmer to allow Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham an opportunity to return to Parliament.
However, Business Secretary Peter Kyle has indicated that the government will resist any attempt by Burnham to contest a by-election.