Wes Streeting has resigned as Health Secretary, plunging Keir Starmer's Government into chaos. Mr Streeting, who has long been tipped as a possible challenger, held a 16-minute crisis meeting with Keir Starmer on Wednesday morning as civil war engulfed the Labour Party. Over 80 MPs have publicly called on the Prime Minister to resign in the wake of last week’s election disaster.
Moments before the King's Speech began on Wednesday, explosive briefings emerged that Mr Streeting has told allies he is preparing to walk. In order for Mr Streeting to trigger a contest for the Labour leadership, 20% of the parliamentary party — 81 MPs — must nominate him as a challenger. Mr Starmer, as the incumbent, would automatically be on the ballot paper if he decides to fight to stay in power in any contest.
Downing Street's Desperate Efforts
Downing Street had desperately tried to stamp out any potential challenge, with cabinet ministers including Chancellor Rachel Reeves deployed to work Parliament's tearooms, warning potential rebels that a leadership contest risked paralysing the Government for months. Rival figures were also spotted including Zubir Ahmed, an ally of Mr Streeting who quit as a health minister, and former Deputy PM Angela Rayner.
It is understood the PM told MPs we “can’t let a leadership contest plunge us into chaos” and that “a challenge would 100% do that”.
What Happens Next?
The resignation throws the Labour Party into a period of intense uncertainty. With a leadership contest looming, the government faces potential paralysis just as the new parliamentary term begins. The coming days will be crucial as MPs decide whether to back a challenger or rally behind the embattled Prime Minister.
