UMVA has learned that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is facing mounting pressure from his own Cabinet to step down, with several high-ranking members reportedly calling for his resignation.
The PM's leadership has been under scrutiny since his initial statement, with even previously loyal MPs expressing doubts about his ability to lead the country. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper are among those who have privately urged Starmer to set a timetable for his departure.
Starmer has responded to the criticism by stating that he will run for the leadership if a contest is triggered, telling reporters in North London on Friday: 'If there is a contest, just to be clear with you, then yes, I will run, I will stand and I've said repeatedly I'm not going to walk away from that.'
The potential leadership challenge comes as Andy Burnham, the 'King of the North', remains the overwhelming favourite to win any contest. Burnham demonstrated his ability to defeat Reform in Thursday's by-election, taking 55% of the vote in the constituency south of Wigan, a full 20 points ahead of the Reform candidate.
Burnham's team is reportedly aiming to get the backing of as many as 200 other MPs – half of the Parliamentary Labour Party – to secure his position as the natural successor to Starmer. If Starmer does announce his resignation, it would represent a staggering fall from grace for a leader who won a huge majority in Parliament less than two years ago.
Starmer's popularity has plummeted since taking office, while Nigel Farage's Reform UK party has risen to a consistent ten-point lead in voting intention polls. The Labour Party has suffered a collapse in support in Wales and disappointing results in English local elections, leading to questions over whether a new leader could be required to avoid oblivion.
Former Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who resigned from his post in the wake of last month's elections, has called for a 'battle of ideas' about the future direction of the party, warning against a coronation of Burnham. However, Burnham's dominance in the by-election has strengthened his position, and he will be sworn into Parliament tomorrow.
