James Murray, formerly Chief Secretary to the Treasury, has been appointed as the new Health Secretary following Wes Streeting's resignation. Mr Streeting said in a post on X that Mr Murray has his “full support” and that “he inherits a wonderful team and an important mission”.
Streeting Resignation Sparks Leadership Speculation
Mr Streeting resigned from his role on Thursday, stating it would be “dishonourable and unprincipled” to remain in Sir Keir Starmer's Cabinet. He criticised a “drift” and “vacuum” in the government's leadership, asserting that Sir Keir would not lead Labour into the next general election. His resignation could precipitate a Labour leadership contest, with figures like Angela Rayner, Ed Miliband, and Al Carns considered potential candidates. Andy Burnham has also indicated his intention to return to Parliament via a by-election, following Josh Simons' resignation, to challenge Sir Keir Starmer for the leadership.
A Streeting ally insisted that “well more” than 81 Labour MPs are behind him, suggesting significant internal support. The developments mark a turbulent period for the Labour Party, with the Health Secretary's departure adding to existing tensions within the government.
