Keir Starmer's leadership is on the line after Labour suffered a devastating night in local elections, losing over 229 council seats and control of several key authorities. The party was wiped out in Hartlepool, where Reform UK won every council seat, repeating the humiliation of a 2021 byelection defeat that nearly prompted Starmer's resignation.
Reform UK Surges in Labour Heartlands
Reform UK gained 305 seats, becoming the biggest winner overnight, picking up seats in former Labour strongholds like Wigan, Bolton, and Salford. Labour lost control of councils in Hartlepool, Tameside, Redditch, and Tamworth. The Conservatives also suffered losses to Reform, losing 122 seats, but regained control of Westminster Council.
Labour MPs Call for Change
Local Labour MP Jonathan Brash urged Starmer to set a departure timetable, saying: "The very best thing the prime minister could do now is address the nation and set out a timetable for his departure." However, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy urged loyalty: "You don't change the pilot during a flight."
Downing Street has reportedly brought in extra advisers to help Starmer survive the fallout. Senior Labour MPs are keeping quiet for now, but the prime minister faces potential challenges from Angela Rayner, Andy Burnham, and Wes Streeting, all of whom saw losses in their own areas.
Bright Spots and Broader Context
Labour held on in London, retaining Hammersmith and Fulham and defeating the Liberal Democrats in Merton. Polling expert John Curtice described the night as a "substantial success" for Reform. The Liberal Democrats expect an eighth consecutive set of gains, while the Greens hope for progress later.
Despite the dire results, Starmer may take solace that all his likely challengers also suffered in their home patches, with Labour losing control in Tameside (Rayner's area) and struggling in Redbridge (Streeting's constituency).
