A Labour MP has issued a stark ultimatum to Sir Keir Starmer, demanding that a cabinet minister challenge his leadership by Monday or she will do so herself. Catherine West, the MP for Hornsey and Friern Barnet, has set a two-day deadline for the cabinet to “reorganise themselves” and potentially replace the Prime Minister following poor results in the local elections.
West’s ultimatum
Ms West, a former minister, declared she will launch a leadership bid if no senior figure steps forward by Monday. She currently has 10 pledges of support but is confident of securing the 81 required to trigger a contest. She suggested Sir Keir could take on an “international role” to allow new leadership to emerge. The MP previously called for Sir Keir's resignation and has held various shadow ministerial positions.
Background
The local elections saw significant losses for Labour, prompting internal discontent. Ms West’s move represents the most direct challenge to Starmer’s authority since the results. She is believed to be rallying support among backbenchers who share her concerns about the party’s direction.
