More than 100 Labour MPs have signed a statement opposing a leadership contest, as Keir Starmer faces calls from over 80 MPs to resign following poor local election results. The letter, coordinated by backbenchers and circulated by government whips, argues that now is “no time for a leadership contest” and urges the party to focus on rebuilding trust with the electorate.
Starmer told his cabinet he would not stand down unless a formal leadership challenge is triggered, effectively daring potential challengers like Health Secretary Wes Streeting. The prime minister emphasised his intention to continue governing, noting that the threshold for a leadership contest has not been reached.
Supporters say the letter demonstrates majority backing among MPs, though critics point out that it represents less than half of backbench MPs. One critical MP described the effort as “pathetic,” saying it showed Starmer still struggles for support. However, cabinet ministers including Pat McFadden and Liz Kendall publicly rallied behind the prime minister after a cabinet meeting.
The signatories include parliamentary private secretaries and backbenchers such as Perran Moon, Carolyn Harris, and Tulip Siddiq. MPs like John Slinger and Juliet Campbell argued that a leadership change would damage investor confidence and distract from governing. The letter was deliberately not signed off by No 10 to enhance its credibility, organisers said.
