Labour MPs are calling for an end to the 'endless drama' of leadership speculation, as Downing Street pushes back against predictions of an imminent challenge to Keir Starmer. Backbenchers warn that repeated briefings about the prime minister's future are putting off voters, who were similarly weary of the Conservatives' constant leadership changes when in power.
One MP said: 'All people want is a government which works, and not the endless drama. We are in a very tricky global situation, and to have this never-ending conversation about who might have a certain number of supporters feels extremely self-indulgent.' Another MP noted that even those who believe Starmer should be replaced think now is not the right time to do so.
The warnings come ahead of Thursday's local elections, with Labour expected to lose more than 1,000 council seats. Such losses could trigger a leadership challenge. Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, has been linked with a return to Westminster, but faces logistical hurdles, while Angela Rayner and Wes Streeting are seen as unlikely to act imminently.
Labour sources described the situation as a 'Mexican standoff', with allies of various camps briefing journalists. A backbencher said: 'Most sensible MPs are out on the doorsteps, and aren't worrying about all this. It's all focused on personalities and not policy.' Starmer allies worry that the open plotting could worsen the election results, with one saying: 'Nothing makes a party look more out of touch than this level of self-indulgence when people are really worried about the cost of living.'
Some MPs argue that, given the economic uncertainty caused by the Iran war, no leadership change should happen for several months. There are also calls for assurances that Rachel Reeves will remain chancellor. In an Observer article, Starmer referenced the Conservative government's infighting during Covid, while Labour chair Anna Turley urged MPs to 'be resilient' and stick with him. Transport secretary Heidi Alexander told the BBC that asking the prime minister to reapply for his job would be wrong, adding that those who think a leadership election now would repeat Conservative mistakes 'probably do need to give their head a gentle wobble.'
