Keir Starmer is fighting for his political survival as around 40 Labour MPs call for him to set a date to step down, following disastrous local election results. The prime minister will attempt to shore up his position with a speech on Monday, but potential rivals including Wes Streeting and Angela Rayner are already positioning themselves for a leadership contest.
Angela Rayner, the former deputy prime minister, issued a stark warning to Starmer, saying he must “meet the moment”. Her supporters say she is prepared for a possible leadership run, while allies of Health Secretary Wes Streeting confirm he is “preparing in case it all falls apart”. Streeting has told No 10 he will not challenge directly, but some backers are pushing for a move after Starmer’s speech.
The crisis deepened after about 40 Labour MPs, many backing Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, demanded Starmer quit. However, their efforts risk backfiring: a swift contest could favour Streeting, Rayner, or other cabinet contenders such as Ed Miliband. Backbencher Catherine West is gathering names for a “stalking horse” challenge to force a contest, but Burnham’s supporters are urging her to withdraw, as it would not leave Burnham time to enter parliament.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle acknowledged the “window of opportunity has narrowed” after the election losses, but said Starmer can win back voters by showing boldness. Starmer’s speech will promise to “put Britain at the heart of Europe” and tackle growth, defence, energy, and challenges, warning that “incremental change won’t cut it”.
