Keir Starmer is increasingly confident that he has seen off an immediate threat to his job after a challenge from Health Secretary Wes Streeting failed to materialize, despite several of Streeting's allies resigning from the government. Downing Street insiders suggest that Streeting does not yet have the required support from 81 MPs needed to formally launch a leadership bid, following Starmer's ultimatum to his cabinet.
Streeting's Position Weakened
Streeting is due to hold talks with Starmer on Wednesday, where he is expected to discuss his concerns candidly. However, No 10 insiders indicate he is backing down from intense speculation that he was on the brink of running. One loyalist cabinet minister expressed mixed feelings, stating that Streeting may not have the numbers after all and that the best course is for him to end the drama with dignity.
Other Threats Neutralized
Starmer's allies also believe he has seen off a threat from Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham for the time being. One ally noted that Burnham's supporters claim he has a seat, but questioned its reality. However, the prime minister's authority has been weakened by the resignation of four ministers, three of whom are close to Streeting, in what appeared to be an orchestrated move. Over 90 Labour MPs have called for Starmer to go.
Union Reactions
At a private meeting, Labour-supporting unions were divided over whether to call for Starmer to set a departure timetable. They eventually agreed to issue a statement saying Starmer would not lead the party into the next election, despite opposition from GMB and Community unions. The statement criticized the party's current path and called for a plan to elect a new leader.
Ed Miliband's Role
Sources reveal that Ed Miliband, who privately suggested Starmer consider setting a timeline for departure, was prepared to run for leader if Streeting had challenged. Senior Labour figures say Miliband, seen as a kingmaker, would have struck a deal with Angela Rayner and Louise Haigh for a soft-left candidate if Burnham did not run.
Starmer's Defiance
Earlier, Starmer told his cabinet he would fight on as prime minister, stating that the threshold for a leadership challenge had not been met. Cabinet ministers, including David Lammy, rallied around him, while over 110 backbenchers signed a letter opposing a challenge. Starmer emphasized responsibility for election results and the need to focus on governing.
Cabinet Tensions
There was anger within cabinet ranks over Streeting's attempts to destabilize Starmer, especially after three of his allies resigned. One minister criticized Streeting's audacity, noting furious reactions from colleagues. While some sources close to Streeting suggest he lacks the numbers, one ally cautioned against ruling out a challenge entirely.
Burnham's Prospects
Miatta Fahnbulleh, the first minister to resign, backs Burnham to replace Starmer and wants a proper process for a leadership contest. However, Burnham's hopes were dealt a blow when MP Marie Rimmer said she would not stand down and backed Starmer.
Looking Ahead
Starmer hopes the king's speech on Wednesday will serve as a reset moment to unite the party. Even loyal ministers acknowledge he is unlikely to lead Labour into the next election unless he dramatically improves his fortunes. Downing Street announced four new ministers to replace those who resigned, including Natalie Fleet, Nesil Caliskan, Catherine Atkinson, and Preet Kaur Gill. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood spent the day on resignation watch but ultimately decided to stay.
Lammy urged MPs to step back and focus on governing, noting that no one has come forward to challenge Starmer through party processes. He questioned which candidate would be better and emphasized the need to run the country. The Guardian understands that Lammy was among four senior cabinet ministers who spoke to Starmer about his future on Monday.
