Keir Starmer has warned Labour MPs and ministers that a leadership contest could plunge the party into “chaos,” as speculation grows that Health Secretary Wes Streeting may be preparing an imminent challenge to his leadership.
The Prime Minister made the remarks while addressing members of Parliament amid rising internal unrest following heavy Labour losses in recent local elections across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Reports indicate that four ministers have resigned and dozens of Labour MPs have called for Starmer to step down or set a timetable for his departure.
Supporters of Streeting told the BBC they expect a leadership challenge could be launched as early as Thursday. Under Labour Party rules, a challenger would need the backing of 81 MPs to trigger a formal contest.
Streeting reportedly met Starmer at Downing Street for less than 20 minutes earlier in the week, amid intense speculation over his intentions. However, the Prime Minister’s spokesperson said Starmer retains “full confidence” in the Health Secretary.
In a series of meetings with ministers and MPs, Starmer urged unity, warning colleagues that internal division would undermine the government’s ability to deliver its agenda.
“We cannot let a leadership contest plunge us into chaos — a challenge would 100% do that,” he reportedly told MPs.
Despite the tensions, the government proceeded with a wide-ranging legislative programme outlined in the King’s Speech, presented by King Charles III in Parliament.
The proposed reforms include plans to abolish NHS England, introduce digital ID systems, limit jury trials, end the leasehold housing system, nationalise British Steel, accelerate green energy projects, strengthen EU trade ties, and invest in rail infrastructure in northern England.
Jonathan Brash and other MPs have publicly criticised Starmer’s leadership, arguing that the government is failing to inspire public confidence or deliver the scale of change voters expect.
Brash, along with more than 80 Labour MPs, has called for either Starmer’s resignation or the announcement of a clear leadership transition timeline.
Speaking in Parliament, he said the government had not yet offered the “hope” the public was seeking and urged a more ambitious policy direction.
The growing internal pressure marks one of the most significant leadership challenges faced by Starmer since taking office, with party unity now emerging as a central political concern.
