Labour backbencher Catherine West has withdrawn her leadership challenge against Sir Keir Starmer, but is now pressing him to announce a timetable for his departure as Labour leader by September.
West Steps Back from Challenge
Ms West, who had been critical of Sir Keir's leadership, confirmed she would not pursue a formal challenge. Instead, she intends to rally colleagues to demand that the Prime Minister set out a clear plan to step down before the autumn. Her decision follows a period of intense speculation about Sir Keir's future after Labour suffered heavy losses in local elections.
Starmer Accepts Responsibility
Sir Keir has acknowledged the party's 'tough' election results, which saw Labour lose nearly 1,500 councillors and control of the Welsh parliament. In a statement, he said he takes full responsibility for the losses and that the party needs to 'be better and do better'. He vowed to prove his 'doubters' wrong amid ongoing criticism from within his own party.
Potential leadership contenders include Angela Rayner and Wes Streeting, though neither has made a move against Sir Keir. The situation remains fluid, with many Labour MPs watching closely to see if Sir Keir can stabilise his position or if further challenges emerge.
Ms West's shift from challenger to advocate for a leadership transition reflects the growing unease among some Labour MPs about the party's direction under Sir Keir. However, her decision to step back from a direct challenge may also indicate a lack of sufficient support for an immediate change at the top.
