Sky News was interrupted this morning for a breaking alert as political editor Beth Rigby sat down with Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss the challenges of leadership speculation. The PM is in Evian-les-Bains in the south of France for the G7 summit.
Starmer's Response to Leadership Speculation
Starmer was asked if he felt angry about the predicament he's in, and he firmly replied: "No, I don't feel angry, I don't feel bitter because I remind myself it is an incredible privilege to be the prime minister of the United Kingdom." He added that it's a "privilege" to be on the world stage and to serve your country and to grapple with difficult issues. He then listed issues that he still wants to tackle, including cutting migration and improving the UK's relationship with the EU.
Privilege of Service
The prime minister is at Evian-les-Bains in France for the G7 summit. "Yes, these are big, difficult issues to be grappled with, but it is important for me to step back from that, and through you to just express," he added. "People will attribute all sorts of motivations to me. I can express it myself. It is a privilege to be the prime minister of my country."
Fighting Off Challenges
Starmer reassured that he will fight off leadership challenges, and he is keen to offer Andy Burnham "a big role in government." Burnham is widely anticipated to challenge Starmer for the leadership if he is elected to Parliament. If he wins in Makerfield on Thursday, he would have to resign as Manchester mayor, with a by-election to replace him expected by August 6.
"I hope he wins in the by-election," Starmer said. "He'll be a fantastic asset for our party and for the country."
Political Editor's Analysis
Political editor Rigby reacted to her interview with Starmer and said: "He understands the predicament he is in, and he's very clear-sighted that he wants to carry on." She added: "And I think underlying that is actually a belief that he has... although I didn't ask him this on camera because I know he wouldn't say it... but a belief he has that he is the right person to lead the country."
Angela Rayner's Hint
However, former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner hinted Starmer should be replaced as Labour leader because he is so unpopular. She said: "People need to see that the Labour Party are listening and that they're on their side. I think that's the challenge for us, because they've been very loud and clear in what they've said to us on the doorstep, and it's now our opportunity to listen to that."
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