Keir Starmer is facing mounting pressure from Labour MPs and ministers to dismiss his chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, following allegations of an orchestrated briefing campaign against Health Secretary Wes Streeting. The controversy erupted after reports emerged that No 10 had briefed against Streeting, seen as a potential leadership contender, sparking widespread anger within the party.
Despite the calls for action, Starmer has told MPs he will not sack McSweeney, insisting the team is focused on delivering for the country. However, the prime minister's refusal to commit to consequences for the briefers has led to claims he has "lost the dressing room" among backbenchers. Labour chair Anna Turley later announced an investigation into the briefing, though Starmer had not pledged this earlier.
Streeting has appeared emboldened by the row, delivering a vigorous media defence and gaining support from at least one Labour-backing union. Starmer has sought to calm tensions, apologising to Streeting in a brief conversation, though no further commitments were made. Downing Street sources denied any direct briefing against Streeting, suggesting the aim was to warn MPs against a leadership contest.
The fallout has intensified scrutiny on McSweeney, with some former allies now calling for his departure. One minister said, "Morgan will have to go. But it won't save Keir." Another cabinet source noted a growing consensus that McSweeney must leave, describing the situation as a spectacular backfire. The row has left many MPs questioning the timing and strategy behind the briefing, which has ultimately strengthened Streeting's position.
