Sir Keir Starmer is reportedly contemplating his resignation following mounting pressure within the Labour Party after Andy Burnham’s decisive victory in the Makerfield by-election. As speculation grows, sources suggest that an announcement regarding Starmer’s departure could occur as early as Monday, though Downing Street has remained adamant that he intends to continue leading the party.
A Weekend of Reflection
Starmer spent the weekend at Chequers, weighing his options. Insiders indicate that he is increasingly aware of the untenable position he finds himself in, with senior party figures asserting that a clear timeline for his resignation is necessary. According to The Observer, some allies of Starmer believe he is preparing for a “deliberate slow march” towards stepping down, aiming to preserve his legacy amidst the turmoil.
While Starmer has publicly declared his intention to fight any leadership challenge, the reality within the party suggests that support is waning. A senior ally conveyed to The Sun that there is now merely a “25 per cent chance” he will choose to fight on.
Rising Support for Burnham
Burnham’s recent success in Makerfield has rejuvenated his standing within the party and positioned him as a frontrunner for the leadership. His allies are urging ministers to approach Starmer and demand that he outline a clear timetable for his departure rather than resigning immediately. Some high-profile figures, including Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander and Chief Whip Jonathan Reynolds, have reportedly joined the chorus calling for Starmer’s resignation.
The sentiment within Labour is shifting; even historically loyal MPs are now suggesting that Starmer should step aside. A Labour peer noted that the calls for his resignation are coming from unexpected quarters, further indicating a decline in his support.
Cabinet Meeting Deadline Looms
Starmer is facing a critical deadline of Tuesday morning’s cabinet meeting, where he may be confronted with calls to step down. According to sources, if he does not resign, the situation could lead to a wave of ministerial resignations. This urgency has been highlighted by a senior Labour peer, who remarked that Starmer now holds “absolutely no authority” to continue.
As the political landscape shifts, Burnham’s camp is reportedly pushing for a swift transition of leadership, potentially avoiding a protracted contest. The strategy appears to favour a “coronation” of Burnham as the new leader, aligning with a desire for a clear change in direction for the party.
Potential Cabinet Reshuffle
Should Burnham ascend to leadership, significant changes to the shadow cabinet are expected. Reports indicate that Rachel Reeves could lose her Chancellor position, as Burnham’s team seeks a fresh start that reflects a change in strategy. Names such as Ed Miliband and Wes Streeting have been floated as potential successors to Reeves, highlighting the shifting dynamics within Labour.
Why it Matters
The unfolding drama within Labour is more than just a leadership transition; it encapsulates the party’s struggle to redefine its identity in a changing political climate. Starmer’s potential resignation not only signals a pivotal shift for Labour but could also reshape the broader political landscape in the UK. As Burnham positions himself as the next leader, his challenge will be to unite a party grappling with internal divisions while also appealing to a broader electorate in the wake of Starmer’s tumultuous tenure.