A Labour MP has launched a ‘stalking horse’ challenge against Sir Keir Starmer, drawing comparisons to a Conservative tactic that ultimately led to Margaret Thatcher’s downfall. Catherine West, MP for Hornsey and Friern Barnet, is being likened to Sir Anthony Meyer, who in 1989 stood against Thatcher as a stalking horse candidate. Though Meyer’s bid failed, it significantly weakened Thatcher’s position and set the stage for her removal a year later.
What is a stalking horse?
A stalking horse candidate is someone who enters a leadership contest not with the expectation of winning, but to test the incumbent’s vulnerability and encourage other, more credible challengers to step forward. By taking the initial risk, the stalking horse gives permission for others to follow without appearing disloyal. In West’s case, her move is seen as opening the door for potential contenders like Wes Streeting and Angela Rayner to launch their own bids.
Labour’s leadership challenge rules
Unlike the Conservative Party, Labour’s rules for triggering a leadership contest are more stringent. A challenger must secure nominations from 81 MPs to force a full ballot. However, West’s action makes it highly probable that Sir Keir Starmer will be replaced as Labour leader before the summer. Starmer has vowed to prove his doubters wrong amid growing criticism from within his own party.
The original stalking horse challenge by Sir Anthony Meyer in 1989, though unsuccessful, exposed Thatcher’s weaknesses and encouraged Michael Heseltine to mount a more serious challenge the following year. History now appears to be repeating itself, with West’s move potentially heralding the end of Starmer’s leadership.
