'Why are we even doing this?' The week that left Britain’s PM looking like an interim leader
Week of leadership jostling has left Keir Starmer looking vulnerable and short of time – even though no challenger has officially come forward
TL;DR
- Keir Starmer's leadership authority has been significantly diminished following a turbulent week of internal political activity.
- Wes Streeting resigned as health secretary, calling for a leadership contest, but appeared unable to secure the necessary MP nominations.
- Andy Burnham is identified as a potential successor but faces the challenge of winning a by-election to return to parliament.
- Starmer's allies insist he will fight any challenge and point to Labour's internal battles as counterproductive.
- Despite Starmer's perceived weaknesses as a communicator, his supporters are buoyed by Streeting's apparent failure to launch a successful challenge.