Prime Minister Digs In Against Internal Challenges
Sir Keir Starmer has declared he will fight any attempt to remove him as Labour leader rather than step aside voluntarily, as rumours of behind-the-scenes plotting intensify within Westminster. The Prime Minister's office has moved to a defensive stance ahead of what is anticipated to be a difficult budget announcement later this month, with concerns mounting that its contents could trigger a rebellion among Labour MPs.
The Traitors' Atmosphere in Westminster
Sky News political editor Beth Rigby reports that Sir Keir has no intention of yielding to pressure. Allies of the Prime Minister are warning that any leadership challenge would likely result in a protracted internal election, potentially spooking financial markets and creating further chaos that could damage the Labour brand. The mood within the party's high command has been compared by Sky's deputy political editor Sam Coates to the popular television show The Traitors, characterised by whispers and suspicion.
One senior party figure suggested to Rigby that a move against Sir Keir is more probable after the May elections next year, rather than immediately following the budget on 26 November. They indicated that many Labour MPs might be able to support measures such as tax increases for wealthier workers, pensioners, and landlords, as well as the scrapping of the two-child benefit cap.
Election Challenges and Leadership Doubts
However, a series of potentially damaging elections loom in May, including contests in London and for the Welsh Senedd. Labour faces significant challenges from Reform UK on the political right and from parties like the Greens and Plaid Cymru on the left.
Rigby's reporting also highlights a settled view among some senior figures that Starmer lacks the charisma and communication skills needed to effectively counter Nigel Farage and win over the public. This concern is amplified by the possibility of the Prime Minister breaking a number of manifesto pledges, as both he and Chancellor Rachel Reeves have refused to rule out raising income tax, national insurance, or VAT in the upcoming budget.
The reports of a Number 10 bunker mentality emerged on Tuesday night in publications including The Times, The Guardian, and from the BBC, speaking of regime change and plotting. In response, Health Secretary Wes Streeting firmly denied any involvement in efforts to oust the Prime Minister. A spokesperson for Mr Streeting stated categorically that the claims were untrue, emphasising that his focus remains entirely on NHS priorities.
As the political tension builds, all eyes are on Prime Minister's Questions, where Tory leader Kemi Badenoch is expected to capitalise on Sir Keir's precarious position.
