LONDON: Efforts to unseat British Prime Minister Keir Starmer are expected to erupt into open rebellion on Thursday, as a potential rival prepares to announce his bid for the leadership and another clears the way for her to enter any future contest.
Streeting Announces Leadership Bid
Allies of Health Secretary Wes Streeting have indicated that he will make an announcement later on Thursday after securing sufficient support from Labour Party lawmakers to challenge Starmer for the leadership of both the party and the government. Streeting, who belongs to the moderate wing of the Labour Party, has garnered backing from more than the required 81 of the party's 403 members in the House of Commons. In recent days, a growing number of lawmakers have publicly called on Starmer to step down.
Rayner Clears Tax Hurdle
Former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner announced on Thursday that she had reached an agreement with tax authorities to resolve questions about her taxes, which had forced her to leave the Cabinet last September. In an interview with the Guardian newspaper, Rayner stated that Starmer should "reflect on" his position and expressed readiness to "play my part" in any leadership election if Streeting triggers a contest. Rayner is a favorite among left-wing voters and advocates for raising the minimum wage and increasing taxes on the wealthy.
Pressure Mounts After Election Losses
The pressure on Starmer has intensified following the Labour Party's significant losses in local and regional elections last week. These results have underscored voter frustration with the slow pace of change under the current government. Starmer has vowed to remain in office, warning that a leadership contest would plunge the government into "chaos" at a critical time when it should be addressing issues such as the cost of living crisis and the war in the Middle East.
Other Potential Candidates
Other potential candidates may also enter the race. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has been widely discussed as a possible contender, though he would need to secure a seat in Parliament first. Allies have suggested that a sitting MP could resign to allow Burnham to run in a special election. Burnham canceled his regular Thursday appearance on a local BBC radio program this week to "prioritize discussions arising from last week's elections."
Under Labour Party rules, a challenger must have the backing of 81 MPs. More than that number have already publicly called for Starmer's resignation, indicating that a leadership contest is increasingly likely.
