In just 48 hours, the tone from Keir Starmer and his supporters shifted dramatically from defiance to glum acceptance, charting the prime minister's changing position on his own future. Below are five quotes that trace this rapid transition.
Friday Morning: 'If there is a contest, then yes, I will stand'
Speaking during a housing-related visit in north London on Friday morning, Starmer was adamant he would not go without a fight, even after Andy Burnham's substantial victory in the Makerfield byelection and return to parliament. "I have said repeatedly, I am not going to walk away from that," the prime minister said, adding hopefully: "Let's pull together as a party and a movement."
Friday Lunchtime: 'The prime minister is very much getting on with the business'
The daily No 10 media briefings, traditionally led by a civil servant tasked with reflecting Downing Street views, batted away questions about possible departure in a flurry of government speak. The impression was unconvincing, given every journalist in the room knew Starmer was already discussing his next steps.
Friday Afternoon: 'Those who don't see which way this is going...'
An anonymous cabinet minister told the Guardian later on Friday: "Those who don't see which way this is going are going to inevitably end up looking like they were the last ones in the bunker." Another figure added: "Everyone thinks it is over and everyone wants it to be a dignified, orderly exit."
Saturday Morning: 'The herd is stampeding'
Harriet Harman, a Labour grandee and peer, told Sky News on Saturday: "I have to say that it's not only that the herd is moving, they are stampeding." She paraphrased Boris Johnson's wildlife-based analogy for his own downfall and called for swift action, warning the government could not exist "in a state of paralysis all through the summer." She added: "We don't want a situation where cabinet ministers are resigning to try and push Keir Starmer out."
Sunday Morning: 'I don't want to come on here and be delusional'
Business secretary Peter Kyle, tasked with Sunday's broadcast round, was repeatedly asked whether Starmer had decided to set out a timetable for departure on Monday. While maintaining he had no inside knowledge, Kyle said he had talked at length with the prime minister on Friday, who had been "very mindful of the interests of the country" and asked for Kyle's advice. Kyle's observation that Starmer was aware of the "political realities" left little doubt about what he expects to happen. The subtext was clear: a new prime minister is on the way.
