Following a devastating set of local election results, a growing number of Labour MPs have publicly called for Sir Keir Starmer to step down as party leader. The losses, which included the Welsh First Minister losing his seat and significant gains by Reform in England, have sparked internal rebellion within the party.
Breaking Ranks
Former cabinet minister Louise Haigh stated: “I think what is abundantly clear is that unless the government delivers significant and urgent change, then the prime minister cannot lead us into another election.” Her comments were echoed by Richard Burgon, leader of the Socialist Campaign Group of left-wing Labour MPs, who said: “It is clear that Keir has fought his last election as Labour leader and, deep down, he will know it.”
Simon Opher, the MP for Stroud and a former loyalist, warned that Labour could allow Nigel Farage to become prime minister unless it changed leader, adding: “if we go into the next election with him as leader we will get slaughtered.” Olivia Blake, the Labour MP for Sheffield Hallam, said the PM “needs to think about his position”, and told the BBC the party was “kidding ourselves if we think that Keir Starmer will be leading us into the next election.”
Election Fallout
The local elections delivered a heavy blow to Labour, with the party losing ground in its traditional Welsh stronghold and facing a surge from Reform in England. The results have prompted urgent discussions about the party's future direction and leadership ahead of the next general election.
