Tensions within the Labour Party are escalating as allies of Health Secretary Wes Streeting signal that he may soon challenge Keir Starmer’s leadership. Despite Streeting publicly asserting his loyalty to Starmer, sources close to him suggest he is preparing a bid for leadership following the local elections in May, particularly in light of potential competition from Angela Rayner.
Streeting’s Calculated Move
In a recent one-on-one meeting with Starmer, Streeting publicly pledged his support, stating that the Prime Minister is navigating complex challenges with integrity. However, insiders reveal that Streeting’s intentions may not align with his public statements. They believe he is poised to launch a leadership bid shortly after the Gorton and Denton byelection, aiming to pre-empt a possible challenge from Rayner, who is currently under investigation regarding her property taxes.
One MP close to Streeting remarked, “There was a display of unity, but Keir is no safer than he was yesterday.” The sense of urgency among Streeting’s allies stems from a desire to act before the party’s decline becomes inevitable. “Wes has the support, but it will require a level of determination that many colleagues have not shown thus far,” they added, likening Starmer’s leadership to a “zombie” phase.
Starmer’s Struggles and Cabinet Dynamics
Starmer has faced mounting pressure following criticisms from Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, who called for his resignation, as well as the departure of his communications director. In response, Starmer addressed the cabinet, emphasising his commitment to the mandate he was given to transform the country. He stated unequivocally, “I will never walk away from the mandate I was given to change this country.”
However, discussions within the cabinet have suggested that while there is support for Starmer’s continuation, a cultural transformation within Downing Street is deemed necessary. One source described the cabinet meeting as “frank and broad,” indicating a collective recognition of the challenges ahead.
The Fallout from Recent Events
The fallout from Sarwar’s comments has raised questions about potential coordination between him and Streeting. While some ministers speculate about a conspiracy, supporters of Streeting argue that there was no collusion. They point out that Streeting was publicly defending Starmer during Sarwar’s remarks, and planned to release text messages with Peter Mandelson, suggesting his commitment to the party’s leadership remained intact.
This internal confusion only adds to the uncertainty surrounding Starmer’s position. Several MPs have suggested that the local election results will be crucial in determining his future, with one saying, “The public does not like or trust Keir Starmer. Once we have the results of the local elections, it will become unavoidably clear that something bigger needs to change.”
The Road Ahead for Labour
As Labour prepares for the upcoming local elections, the party finds itself at a pivotal moment. The results will likely dictate not only Starmer’s fate but also the broader direction of the party. Streeting’s ambitions, coupled with the growing discontent among MPs, signal that Labour may soon be at a crossroads.
Why it Matters
The internal dynamics of Labour are increasingly reflective of broader political sentiments in the UK. A leadership challenge could exacerbate divisions within the party at a time when unity is essential for electoral success. With public perception of Starmer waning, the choices made in the coming weeks will not only shape Labour’s leadership but also its ability to effectively counter the growing threat from rival parties in the next general election. As the party grapples with its future, the implications of these internal struggles could reverberate far beyond Westminster.
