Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer has made clear he will fight any attempt by Labour MPs to remove him as party leader, amid growing speculation of an internal revolt.
Allies of Starmer said he intends to resist pressure from within his party, following fears that MPs could move against him after the upcoming Budget.
Critics have accused Downing Street of being in full bunker mode, while supporters warn that a leadership contest would destabilise the government and the economy.
Potential successors being discussed include Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, and Energy Secretary Ed Miliband. Streeting dismissed the rumours as “self-defeating nonsense,” insisting he would not challenge the prime minister.
Labour’s rules mean any challenge would require nominations from at least 20% of MPs around 81 members.
Some MPs believe the party cannot wait until next year’s local elections to act, fearing further losses if Starmer’s unpopularity continues.
Polls show the Prime minister’s approval ratings are at historic lows, with Labour’s support hovering around 20%. Still, allies argue he remains the party’s best hope of stability. Labour peer Maurice Glasman said talk of a leadership contest was just noise, adding that no rival has a clear strategy or direction.
Starmer’s team insists he is focused on tackling the rise of Reform UK and leading Labour’s national renewal, despite mounting unrest within his own ranks.
