Allies of Sir Keir Starmer assert he will fight any attempts to replace him as Labour leader. Concerns are rising among his supporters about potential challenges following the upcoming Budget.

At a glance

Leadership Challenges Loom

Allies of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer are making it clear he will resist any leadership challenges from Labour MPs. There are fears among his supporters that his position could be jeopardized soon after the Budget, scheduled for two weeks from now. Critics argue that the government is retreating into a defensive stance, which may not help its current predicament. Friends of Starmer are increasingly worried about what they perceive as plotting to unseat him. They emphasize the significant risks associated with a leadership challenge at this time. Names being discussed as potential replacements include some of Starmer's closest cabinet allies, such as Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood.

Concerns About Upcoming Elections

Labour insiders acknowledge that the party faces a critical moment with upcoming elections in Scotland, Wales, and local councils across England next May. Many expect Labour to perform poorly in these elections, prompting some members to argue that a leadership change cannot wait until then. One senior Labour MP expressed frustration, stating that waiting for the local elections would put their activist base at risk. Another source indicated that the reasons for a leadership change are accumulating, suggesting that if Streeting were to act decisively, he could be positioned as a potential prime minister by Christmas.

Speculation Surrounding Streeting

The ambition of Wes Streeting is viewed with suspicion by some loyal to Starmer. A spokesperson for Streeting has denied claims of any leadership ambitions, stating that his focus remains on improving the NHS. Streeting is scheduled for interviews to discuss his plans for healthcare reform, which he claims are his primary concern. Meanwhile, a government source criticized the current atmosphere in Downing Street, describing it as a "full bunker mode." They noted a pattern of internal conflicts, suggesting that infighting among Starmer's team could undermine the government's stability.

Concerns Over Party Stability

Supporters of Starmer are warning Labour MPs to consider the implications of a leadership contest. They argue that such a move could lead to chaos similar to the turmoil experienced by the Conservative Party in its final years in power. There are fears that a leadership change could destabilize international markets and jeopardize relationships with key allies, including President Trump. Despite these warnings, some ministers express deep concern about Starmer's unpopularity. Polls indicate he may be the most unpopular British prime minister in modern history, with Labour's support dwindling to around 20 percent of the electorate. The rise of Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, has intensified concerns within Downing Street. Starmer's supporters believe that losing to Farage would be a far worse outcome than losses to the Conservatives. However, doubts about Starmer's ability to effectively confront this challenge are growing among his colleagues. In conclusion, while Starmer's allies assert he will fight any leadership challenges, the internal dynamics within Labour and the looming elections create an uncertain landscape for his leadership.