Sir Keir Starmer is confronting a significant internal party crisis as newly elected Labour MPs are reportedly discussing plans to remove him as leader following concerning poll ratings and speculation about potential tax increases.
Leadership Under Fire
The political turmoil within the Labour Party intensified on Saturday 08 November 2025 when the head of the UK's largest union publicly expressed doubts about Starmer's future, stating she was uncertain whether he would remain leader after May. This development comes alongside revelations that the recent intake of Labour parliamentarians is allegedly coordinating a future coup against their leader.
Adding to Starmer's challenges, Labour has restored the whip to four previously rebellious MPs, including Rachael Maskell, who had defied the Government's welfare reform plans. This move has been interpreted by some as an attempt to consolidate support within the fractious parliamentary party.
Government Troubles Mount
The Prime Minister's difficult week extended beyond internal party disputes, with several senior government figures facing their own controversies. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy was forced to apologise after an investigation found she had "unknowingly" breached governance rules by failing to declare donations from her chosen chair for a new football watchdog.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy faced sharp criticism for his handling of the mistaken release of a prisoner from HMP Wandsworth. Opposition parties particularly highlighted his failure to address the serious blunder during Prime Minister's Questions.
Economic Policy Divisions
Further complicating the political landscape, Deputy Labour leader Lucy Powell issued a warning against raising income tax in the upcoming Budget. This public statement comes amid growing speculation that Chancellor Rachel Reeves is considering plans to cap tax-free pension contributions, a move that could prove controversial with both backbench MPs and the electorate.
The convergence of these events - from internal leadership challenges to government scandals and policy disagreements - presents one of the most serious tests of Starmer's leadership since taking office, with the party's unity and electoral prospects hanging in the balance.
