A new poll has revealed that the majority of Labour members do not believe Keir Starmer can revive the party's fortunes, with 45% saying the prime minister should step down. The survey, conducted by the thinktank Compass among more than 1,000 party members, found that Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, is the first choice to succeed Starmer for 42% of respondents.
Growing Discontent with Starmer's Leadership
The poll, taken just before Thursday's elections, shows a sharp increase in dissatisfaction with Starmer's leadership. In October, only 28% of members thought the prime minister should resign if Labour performed poorly in May. Now, more than a third of members are considering resigning their membership. Over half (51%) do not believe Starmer can turn around the party's polling numbers, indicating a lack of faith that he could defeat Reform UK at the next general election.
Election Results Highlight Labour's Struggles
Labour faced defeats on multiple fronts. Nigel Farage's Reform UK won hundreds of seats and control of several councils in England. In Scotland, Labour went backwards as the SNP claimed a historic fifth victory. In Wales, Plaid Cymru ended a century of Labour dominance, unseating First Minister Eluned Morgan. In London, the Greens took several councils, reflecting growing progressive disillusionment with Starmer's party.
Andy Burnham Emerges as Preferred Successor
Among members, Burnham has a net favourability of 72%, suggesting he would likely win any leadership contest he could enter. However, he cannot run for parliament while blocked by Labour's National Executive Committee (NEC). Several Labour MPs, particularly those close to Burnham, have urged Starmer to set a timetable for an orderly departure, allowing Burnham time to seek a parliamentary seat.
Call for Change Within Labour
Lena Swedlow, deputy director of Compass, said: "Voters made their displeasure with Starmer's leadership heard on Thursday, and now Labour members have too. Nearly half want him to stand down, and over half don't think he's the right person for the job. In the face of a serious economic situation, the country and party need a trustworthy leader."
At least 10 MPs have called for a departure timetable, including former transport secretary Louise Haigh, Sarah Owen, and several 2024 MPs. Burnham's backers hope pressure will lead Starmer to step aside, but NEC members indicate the position is unlikely to change unless Starmer changes his mind.
