Wes Streeting has abandoned his ambition to stand in the Labour leadership contest following a series of calls with frontrunner Andy Burnham, paving the way for a Burnham coronation as Prime Minister in July. Despite insisting last week he had the numbers to trigger a contest and calling for a "battle of ideas" to replace Keir Starmer, Streeting set aside his own ambitions after Starmer's resignation on Monday.
From Rival to Supporter
Just last week, Streeting was setting out his economic vision and telling journalists at a central London press conference that he had "every intention" of standing. Allies were bullish even as speculation swirled over Starmer's resignation on Sunday evening. A source told the Mirror: "Wes has always been very clear that his priority is change and that means a change in No10. At the moment he thinks the route to do that is to be a candidate in a leadership contest. He's got the people, he's ready to go."
However, in a statement shortly after Starmer's resignation, Streeting changed course, effectively endorsing Burnham. The shift came as Streeting's stock fell relative to Burnham's, with a sense he would struggle to win over the left-leaning Labour membership against the runaway favourite.
Crunch Talks and Denials of Job Deal
The duo held a series of calls in the wake of the Makerfield by-election, leading to feverish speculation of a job offer—possibly Chancellor, given Streeting's recent economic pitch. One senior Labour MP mused: "I wonder what negotiations are going on for the job that Wes will no doubt want and expect in Andy's Cabinet." The MP added: "I do hope it's not going to be Chancellor. I think Andy's economic policies are going to be key to his success and they don't align with Wes's agenda."
But an ally of Streeting dismissed speculation of a job offer, saying: "There is no deal in place." A source in Burnham's camp backed this up: "Categorically no deal has been done or job offer made." Instead, Streeting's allies said he was reassured Burnham would operate a "broad church" approach to governing and was willing to listen to policy ideas. After conversations, Streeting was convinced of the need to "unite behind a new culture—rather than a summer of fighting" over small differences.
Impact and Future Role
With Streeting stepping aside, Burnham faces no serious rival for the leadership, effectively ensuring his coronation as PM. Streeting, who had emerged as the only legitimate roadblock, will likely expect a senior role in Burnham's Cabinet, though no formal offer has been made. The development marks a rapid shift in Labour's internal dynamics, with the party now rallying behind Burnham to avoid a protracted summer contest.
