British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce his resignation as early as Monday (Jun 22) and has set out a timetable for his departure, The Observer reported. It stated that Starmer concluded that his position as Prime Minister was no longer sustainable following discussions with cabinet ministers, advisers, donors, and trade union leaders. The report added that these discussions had a significant influence on his decision. This comes amid growing concerns over Britain’s leadership stability and mounting internal pressure within the Labour Party.The report added that Starmer was discussing the issue with his wife at his Chequers country residence before making a final call. Senior Labour Party leaders were said to be anticipating a clear statement on his future as early as Monday.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-iran-set-up-secret-iraqi-cells-to-attack-gulf-nations-during-war-report-reveals-1781867375871">Did Iran set up secret Iraqi cells to attack Gulf nations during war? Report reveals…</a><h2>Andy Burnham’s win challenges Starmer</h2>The pressure on the British PM intensified after Andy Burnham’s decisive win in the Makerfield by-election, which has led to growing speculation over a potential leadership challenge within the Labour Party. According to reports, several Labour MPs are calling for Starmer to outline a timetable for his departure and oversee a smooth transition to Burnham rather than a potential leadership battle.Burnham’s allies have urged Starmer to reflect and consult with cabinet ministers, MPs and his family. Meanwhile, teams representing Burnham and Wes Streeting, another possible contender, have largely kept a low profile, a move viewed by some observers as an attempt to avoid increasing pressure on the prime minister while he considers his options.Reports suggested that Starmer has also been consulting members of his cabinet to assess the strength of support within the government. Some senior figures are believed to have encouraged him to consider setting out a timetable for stepping down, though no final decision has been announced.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/iran-never-lost-trump-caught-off-guard-by-his-own-2020-iran-remark-at-g7-summit-1781839754358">‘Who said that?’ Trump caught off guard by his own 2020 Iran remark at G7 summit | WATCH</a><h2>What did Starmer say earlier?</h2>However, earlier this month, Starmer rejected suggestions that he would step down voluntarily, saying that he would not “walk away” from his role. In an interview with the BBC, Starmer said: “I’m not going to walk away.” Clarifying his intention to continue, he said: “Let me be clear that this is not about personal vanity, it is not about stubbornness, it is about a very deep sense of duty. I was elected to serve this country notwithstanding difficult circumstances – that is what I am doing.” Claiming that his government has stabilised the economy, increased defence spending and invested in public services, he added, “Well, that’s what I want to do. I recognise that I’ve got to turn things around. We had a very bad set of elections.”Watch | Italian PM Meloni Accuses Trump of Lying Over G7 Encounter<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italian-pm-meloni-accuses-trump-of-lying-over-g7-encounter-1781974613372/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/italian-pm-meloni-accuses-trump-of-lying-over-g7-encounter-1781974613372/embed</a>&nbsp;

British PM Keir Starmer is expected to announce his resignation as early as June 22, according to a report. The decision reportedly follows consultations with key allies amid rising Labour Party pressure and concerns over leadership stability.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce his resignation as early as Monday (Jun 22) and has set out a timetable for his departure, The Observer reported. It stated that Starmer concluded that his position as Prime Minister was no longer sustainable following discussions with cabinet ministers, advisers, donors, and trade union leaders. The report added that these discussions had a significant influence on his decision. This comes amid growing concerns over Britain’s leadership stability and mounting internal pressure within the Labour Party. The report added that Starmer was discussing the issue with his wife at his Chequers country residence before making a final call. Senior Labour Party leaders were said to be anticipating a clear statement on his future as early as Monday. Also read | Did Iran set up secret Iraqi cells to attack Gulf nations during war? Report reveals… Andy Burnham’s win challenges Starmer The pressure on the British PM intensified after Andy Burnham’s decisive win in the Makerfield by-election, which has led to growing speculation over a potential leadership challenge within the Labour Party. According to reports, several Labour MPs are calling for Starmer to outline a timetable for his departure and oversee a smooth transition to Burnham rather than a potential leadership battle. Burnham’s allies have urged Starmer to reflect and consult with cabinet ministers, MPs and his family. Meanwhile, teams representing Burnham and Wes Streeting, another possible contender, have largely kept a low profile, a move viewed by some observers as an attempt to avoid increasing pressure on the prime minister while he considers his options. Reports suggested that Starmer has also been consulting members of his cabinet to assess the strength of support within the government. Some senior figures are believed to have encouraged him to consider setting out a timetable for stepping down, though no final decision has been announced. Also read | ‘Who said that?’ Trump caught off guard by his own 2020 Iran remark at G7 summit | WATCH What did Starmer say earlier? However, earlier this month, Starmer rejected suggestions that he would step down voluntarily, saying that he would not “walk away” from his role. In an interview with the BBC, Starmer said: “I’m not going to walk away.” Clarifying his intention to continue, he said: “Let me be clear that this is not about personal vanity, it is not about stubbornness, it is about a very deep sense of duty. I was elected to serve this country notwithstanding difficult circumstances – that is what I am doing.” Claiming that his government has stabilised the economy, increased defence spending and invested in public services, he added, “Well, that’s what I want to do. I recognise that I’ve got to turn things around. We had a very bad set of elections.” Watch | Italian PM Meloni Accuses Trump of Lying Over G7 Encounter https://www.wionews.com/videos/italian-pm-meloni-accuses-trump-of-lying-over-g7-encounter-1781974613372/embed

British PM Keir Starmer is expected to announce his resignation as early as June 22, according to a report. The decision reportedly follows consultations with key allies amid rising Labour Party pressure and concerns over leadership stability.

Starmer to resign? Report claims UK PM to announce exit as early as Monday

Keir Starmer is likely to face further headaches after Andy Burnham <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/jun/19/andy-burnham-wins-makerfield-byelection-paving-way-labour-leadership-challenge">won</a> the Makerfield by-election, bolstering the Greater Manchester mayor's chances to challenge the UK prime minister for Labour Party leadership. Two years after bringing Labour back to power in a landslide general election victory, Starmer is struggling on the domestic, defence and foreign policy fronts. Since he took charge in July 2024, six ministers and multiple aides resigned, the highest number for a recent prime minister at this stage of premiership. The resignations were over defence spending, the cost-of-living crisis, high taxation, welfare reforms, the Peter Mandelson-Jeffrey Epstein controversy, the failure to reform the National Health Service (NHS), and illegal immigration. From being Labour's poster boy, Starmer is increasingly being blamed for his party's poor performance in recent local elections that saw the rise of far-right parties like Reform and Restore Britain. But the real question is on how Britain has, since 2016, fallen into one of its most unstable periods of political leadership with PMs coming and going. As one report asked: is Britain <a href="https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20260513-ungovernable-britain-once-stable-politics-in-freefall">ungovernable</a>?<h2>British Prime Ministers' revolving door: The Conservatives saw five PMs in 14 years</h2>David Cameron, who became PM in 2010 went on to win a Conservative majority in the 2015 general election. Confident that Britain would choose to remain in the European Union (EU), he called for a referendum on Brexit. However, 51.9 per cent of voters chose to leave the EU, prompting his resignation in 2016.That marked the beginning of a revolving door of British prime ministers. Theresa May succeeded Cameron and conducted Brexit negotiations with the EU, securing a withdrawal agreement. However, Parliament rejected the deal three times. Faced with internal divisions and political deadlock, she resigned in 2019.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/keir-starmer-accuses-elon-musk-of-trying-to-whip-up-division-in-uk-over-gruesome-murder-case-that-sparked-protests-vickrum-digwa-henry-nowak-1780639177771">Keir Starmer accuses Elon Musk of 'trying to whip up division' in UK. What did he do?</a>&nbsp;May was succeeded by the maverick Boris Johnson, who won the Conservative leadership contest on a promise to "Get Brexit Done". Johnson led the Tories to victory in the 2019 general election and oversaw the UK's departure from the EU in 2020.Then Covid-19 struck. Johnson's government was accused of hypocrisy after officials and advisers attended gatherings inside government buildings while the public was subject to strict lockdown restrictions during the pandemic. Besides this "Partygate" scandal, the infighting among senior Conservatives, misconduct allegations against MP Chris Pincher, and internal government revolts steadily weakened Johnson's authority. In July 2022, after more than 60 ministers and aides resigned, Johnson stepped down, paving the way for one of the shortest premierships in British history.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-politics-outcome-of-makerfield-by-election-could-put-keir-starmer-s-leadership-at-risk-1781801829216">https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-politics-outcome-of-makerfield-by-election-could-put-keir-starmer-s-leadership-at-risk-1781801829216</a>Liz Truss famously did not last as long as a lettuce, captured on a viral video. Her "mini-budget", which included large unfunded tax cuts, triggered a severe market reaction. The pound fell sharply, government borrowing costs surged, and the Bank of England was forced to intervene to stabilise financial markets. Truss resigned after just 44 days in office, becoming the shortest-serving prime minister in British history.She was followed by Rishi Sunak, whose government struggled with inflation, weak economic growth, and a prolonged cost-of-living crisis. In the 2024 general election, the Conservatives suffered a heavy defeat, ending their turbulent 14-year run in power.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/can-keir-starmer-survive-as-uk-pm-amid-leadership-crisis-in-labour-party-possible-scenarios-explained-1778487745891">Can Keir Starmer survive as UK PM amid leadership crisis in Labour Party? Possible scenarios EXPLAINED</a><h2>Even a landslide victory did not spare Labour from internal squabbles</h2>The rise of Keir Starmer to the premiership after the 2024 election came after years of Labour infighting, including the removal of former leader Jeremy Corbyn amid allegations that he had failed to adequately address antisemitism within the party. The inner-party divisions are once again becoming visible.Despite Labour securing 63 per cent of seats in the House of Commons, Starmer is facing multiple challenges. His handling of the wars in Ukraine and Iran, disputes over UK's defence spending, and uneasy relations with US President Donald Trump have all drawn criticism. Combined with domestic concerns over public services, welfare policy, taxation, and immigration, these issues have fuelled growing questions about both Starmer's leadership and the stability of British politics. Andy Burnham is not his only challenge. Others who could be eyeing his post include former health secretary Wes Streeting, former Labour leader Ed Miliband, and former depty PM Angela Rayner Starmer. An official leadership challenge could ensue once the rival gets formal backing from at least 20 per cent &nbsp;of Labour MPs, or 81 MPs.All this is again bringing in the possibility that Britain is in for another period of turbulence, in spite of Starmer insisting that he will be PM till his tenure ends.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces mounting pressure amid Labour infighting and policy setbacks. But the real question is Britain's political instability since Brexit

Keir Starmer is likely to face further headaches after Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election, bolstering the Greater Manchester mayor's chances to challenge the UK prime minister for Labour Party leadership. Two years after bringing Labour back to power in a landslide general election victory, Starmer is struggling on the domestic, defence and foreign policy fronts. Since he took charge in July 2024, six ministers and multiple aides resigned, the highest number for a recent prime minister at this stage of premiership. The resignations were over defence spending, the cost-of-living crisis, high taxation, welfare reforms, the Peter Mandelson-Jeffrey Epstein controversy, the failure to reform the National Health Service (NHS), and illegal immigration. From being Labour's poster boy, Starmer is increasingly being blamed for his party's poor performance in recent local elections that saw the rise of far-right parties like Reform and Restore Britain. But the real question is on how Britain has, since 2016, fallen into one of its most unstable periods of political leadership with PMs coming and going. As one report asked: is Britain ungovernable? British Prime Ministers' revolving door: The Conservatives saw five PMs in 14 years David Cameron, who became PM in 2010 went on to win a Conservative majority in the 2015 general election. Confident that Britain would choose to remain in the European Union (EU), he called for a referendum on Brexit. However, 51.9 per cent of voters chose to leave the EU, prompting his resignation in 2016. That marked the beginning of a revolving door of British prime ministers. Theresa May succeeded Cameron and conducted Brexit negotiations with the EU, securing a withdrawal agreement. However, Parliament rejected the deal three times. Faced with internal divisions and political deadlock, she resigned in 2019. Also read: Keir Starmer accuses Elon Musk of 'trying to whip up division' in UK. What did he do? May was succeeded by the maverick Boris Johnson, who won the Conservative leadership contest on a promise to "Get Brexit Done". Johnson led the Tories to victory in the 2019 general election and oversaw the UK's departure from the EU in 2020. Then Covid-19 struck. Johnson's government was accused of hypocrisy after officials and advisers attended gatherings inside government buildings while the public was subject to strict lockdown restrictions during the pandemic. Besides this "Partygate" scandal, the infighting among senior Conservatives, misconduct allegations against MP Chris Pincher, and internal government revolts steadily weakened Johnson's authority. In July 2022, after more than 60 ministers and aides resigned, Johnson stepped down, paving the way for one of the shortest premierships in British history. https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-politics-outcome-of-makerfield-by-election-could-put-keir-starmer-s-leadership-at-risk-1781801829216 Liz Truss famously did not last as long as a lettuce, captured on a viral video. Her "mini-budget", which included large unfunded tax cuts, triggered a severe market reaction. The pound fell sharply, government borrowing costs surged, and the Bank of England was forced to intervene to stabilise financial markets. Truss resigned after just 44 days in office, becoming the shortest-serving prime minister in British history. She was followed by Rishi Sunak, whose government struggled with inflation, weak economic growth, and a prolonged cost-of-living crisis. In the 2024 general election, the Conservatives suffered a heavy defeat, ending their turbulent 14-year run in power. Also read: Can Keir Starmer survive as UK PM amid leadership crisis in Labour Party? Possible scenarios EXPLAINED Even a landslide victory did not spare Labour from internal squabbles The rise of Keir Starmer to the premiership after the 2024 election came after years of Labour infighting, including the removal of former leader Jeremy Corbyn amid allegations that he had failed to adequately address antisemitism within the party. The inner-party divisions are once again becoming visible. Despite Labour securing 63 per cent of seats in the House of Commons, Starmer is facing multiple challenges. His handling of the wars in Ukraine and Iran, disputes over UK's defence spending, and uneasy relations with US President Donald Trump have all drawn criticism. Combined with domestic concerns over public services, welfare policy, taxation, and immigration, these issues have fuelled growing questions about both Starmer's leadership and the stability of British politics. Andy Burnham is not his only challenge. Others who could be eyeing his post include former health secretary Wes Streeting, former Labour leader Ed Miliband, and former depty PM Angela Rayner Starmer. An official leadership challenge could ensue once the rival gets formal backing from at least 20 per cent of Labour MPs, or 81 MPs. All this is again bringing in the possibility that Britain is in for another period of turbulence, in spite of Starmer insisting that he will be PM till his tenure ends.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces mounting pressure amid Labour infighting and policy setbacks. But the real question is Britain's political instability since Brexit

Politics over everything else: Will Andy Burnham vs Keir Starmer add to UK's unstable PM trend? The Big Question

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday (June 12) appointed Dan Jarvis as Defence Secretary after the resignation of John Healey, who accused the government of failing to provide enough funding for national defence.&nbsp;Announcing the appointment, Starmer said protecting Britain remained his top priority. "My first duty is to keep the British people safe, and I will always do what is necessary to protect our national security.&nbsp;"I am pleased to appoint Dan Jarvis as defence secretary as we strengthen our armed forces and meet the growing threats facing our country."&nbsp;He added that the Labour government was delivering the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War and would ensure the armed forces had the capabilities needed to defend the country.<h2>Healey cites defence funding concerns</h2>In his resignation letter, Healey said he could no longer support the government's defence spending plans, arguing that Britain faced rising security threats without sufficient resources.&nbsp;"You have been unable, and the Treasury has been unwilling, to commit the resources that the nation needs to defend the country at this time of rising threats," Healey wrote.&nbsp;"After explaining to you that I would not be able to accept a DIP settlement that does not give our Forces the resources they need, I am now left with no other option than to submit my resignation."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-deal-in-pretty-final-stage-trump-says-signing-possible-in-europe-this-weekend-1781207346213">Iran deal in 'pretty final stage'; Trump says signing possible in Europe this weekend</a>&nbsp;The former defence secretary warned that the government's long-awaited Defence Investment Plan risked making Britain "less safe" if adequate funding was not provided.&nbsp;Starmer later responded, defending his spending plans and insisting they would help modernise the armed forces.&nbsp;"I will always do what is needed to keep our country safe," he wrote.<h2>Cabinet turmoil deepens pressure on Starmer</h2>Later in the day, Armed Forces Minister Al Carns also resigned, along with Healey aide Pamela Nash.&nbsp;Healey's departure marks the most serious cabinet crisis of Starmer's premiership so far. The political pressure has intensified since Labour's heavy losses in the May 2026 local elections, which triggered unrest within the party and a series of resignations, including that of former Health Secretary Wes Streeting.&nbsp;Starmer has pledged to increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent of economic output from next year, rising to three per cent if Labour wins the next general election and eventually reaching 3.5 per cent by 2035.

Healey said he could no longer back the government's defence spending plans, arguing that Britain was facing growing security threats while the Treasury had failed to provide the resources needed to strengthen the country's defences.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday (June 12) appointed Dan Jarvis as Defence Secretary after the resignation of John Healey, who accused the government of failing to provide enough funding for national defence. Announcing the appointment, Starmer said protecting Britain remained his top priority. "My first duty is to keep the British people safe, and I will always do what is necessary to protect our national security. "I am pleased to appoint Dan Jarvis as defence secretary as we strengthen our armed forces and meet the growing threats facing our country." He added that the Labour government was delivering the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War and would ensure the armed forces had the capabilities needed to defend the country. Healey cites defence funding concerns In his resignation letter, Healey said he could no longer support the government's defence spending plans, arguing that Britain faced rising security threats without sufficient resources. "You have been unable, and the Treasury has been unwilling, to commit the resources that the nation needs to defend the country at this time of rising threats," Healey wrote. "After explaining to you that I would not be able to accept a DIP settlement that does not give our Forces the resources they need, I am now left with no other option than to submit my resignation." Also Read: Iran deal in 'pretty final stage'; Trump says signing possible in Europe this weekend The former defence secretary warned that the government's long-awaited Defence Investment Plan risked making Britain "less safe" if adequate funding was not provided. Starmer later responded, defending his spending plans and insisting they would help modernise the armed forces. "I will always do what is needed to keep our country safe," he wrote. Cabinet turmoil deepens pressure on Starmer Later in the day, Armed Forces Minister Al Carns also resigned, along with Healey aide Pamela Nash. Healey's departure marks the most serious cabinet crisis of Starmer's premiership so far. The political pressure has intensified since Labour's heavy losses in the May 2026 local elections, which triggered unrest within the party and a series of resignations, including that of former Health Secretary Wes Streeting. Starmer has pledged to increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent of economic output from next year, rising to three per cent if Labour wins the next general election and eventually reaching 3.5 per cent by 2035.

Healey said he could no longer back the government's defence spending plans, arguing that Britain was facing growing security threats while the Treasury had failed to provide the resources needed to strengthen the country's defences.

Starmer appoints Dan Jarvis as UK Defence Secretary after John Healey quits over defence funding row

Senior Labour MP Wes Streeting on Saturday (May 16) confirmed that he will contest to replace Keir Starmer as leader of the Labour Party and become Britain’s next prime minister, days after resigning as UK health secretary following the party’s poor performance in local elections.&nbsp;Streeting stepped down from the government on Thursday and sharply criticised Starmer’s leadership in his resignation statement. However, no other senior minister resigned alongside him, and he did not immediately trigger a formal leadership contest.&nbsp;Later the same day, Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham announced plans to contest for a parliamentary seat, a move that could allow him to enter the Labour leadership race if successful. Although Streeting has not formally launched the leadership challenge process, he confirmed during a think tank event in London that he intends to enter the race.“We need a proper contest with the best candidates on the field, and I'll be standing,” Streeting said during a speech and question-and-answer session.&nbsp;The 43-year-old MP, who belongs to Labour’s right wing and has long been viewed as a potential leadership contender, said he did not want the process to begin without giving other possible candidates enough time to join.&nbsp;“If we had rushed ahead without giving Andy a chance to stand, the new leader, whether it was me or anyone else, would lack the legitimacy,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>How Labour’s leadership contest works</h2>Under Labour Party rules, a leadership contest can begin if at least 20 per cent of Labour MPs formally support a challenger and submit the required paperwork. With Labour holding a large majority in the UK Parliament, the party leader automatically becomes prime minister.&nbsp;Starmer, as the current party leader, would also be eligible to contest and defend his position if the challenge moves forward.&nbsp;Once candidates are confirmed, Labour members and affiliated groups vote by ranking contenders in order of preference. A candidate must secure more than 50 per cent of the vote to win.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-health-secretary-wes-streeting-resigns-says-he-has-lost-confidence-in-pm-s-leadership-1778761653192">UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigns, says he has ‘lost confidence’ in PM’s leadership</a><h2>Streeting targets Keir Starmer’s leadership after resigning</h2>Streeting’s resignation marked one of the biggest exits from Starmer’s Cabinet so far. In his strongly worded resignation statement, he said he had “lost confidence” in the Prime Minister’s leadership.&nbsp;“Having lost confidence in your leadership, I have concluded that it would be dishonourable and unprincipled to do so,” Streeting wrote.&nbsp;“Where we need vision, we have a vacuum. Where we need direction, we have drift,” he wrote.

Starmer's position significantly weakened after the Labour Party's poor showing in the recently concluded regional polls, followed by the resignations of four junior ministers and UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting.

Senior Labour MP Wes Streeting on Saturday (May 16) confirmed that he will contest to replace Keir Starmer as leader of the Labour Party and become Britain’s next prime minister, days after resigning as UK health secretary following the party’s poor performance in local elections. Streeting stepped down from the government on Thursday and sharply criticised Starmer’s leadership in his resignation statement. However, no other senior minister resigned alongside him, and he did not immediately trigger a formal leadership contest. Later the same day, Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham announced plans to contest for a parliamentary seat, a move that could allow him to enter the Labour leadership race if successful. Although Streeting has not formally launched the leadership challenge process, he confirmed during a think tank event in London that he intends to enter the race. “We need a proper contest with the best candidates on the field, and I'll be standing,” Streeting said during a speech and question-and-answer session. The 43-year-old MP, who belongs to Labour’s right wing and has long been viewed as a potential leadership contender, said he did not want the process to begin without giving other possible candidates enough time to join. “If we had rushed ahead without giving Andy a chance to stand, the new leader, whether it was me or anyone else, would lack the legitimacy,” he said. How Labour’s leadership contest works Under Labour Party rules, a leadership contest can begin if at least 20 per cent of Labour MPs formally support a challenger and submit the required paperwork. With Labour holding a large majority in the UK Parliament, the party leader automatically becomes prime minister. Starmer, as the current party leader, would also be eligible to contest and defend his position if the challenge moves forward. Once candidates are confirmed, Labour members and affiliated groups vote by ranking contenders in order of preference. A candidate must secure more than 50 per cent of the vote to win. Also Read: UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigns, says he has ‘lost confidence’ in PM’s leadership Streeting targets Keir Starmer’s leadership after resigning Streeting’s resignation marked one of the biggest exits from Starmer’s Cabinet so far. In his strongly worded resignation statement, he said he had “lost confidence” in the Prime Minister’s leadership. “Having lost confidence in your leadership, I have concluded that it would be dishonourable and unprincipled to do so,” Streeting wrote. “Where we need vision, we have a vacuum. Where we need direction, we have drift,” he wrote.

Starmer's position significantly weakened after the Labour Party's poor showing in the recently concluded regional polls, followed by the resignations of four junior ministers and UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting.

Former UK health secretary Wes Streeting confirms bid to replace Keir Starmer as Labour leader after quitting Cabinet

UK health secretary Wes Streeting resigned on Thursday (May 14), marking one of the biggest exits from Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Cabinet, after publicly declaring that he had “lost confidence” in the Prime Minister’s leadership.&nbsp;In a lengthy resignation letter, Streeting said he was stepping down despite what he described as major achievements in improving the National Health Service.“Having lost confidence in your leadership, I have concluded that it would be dishonourable and unprincipled to do so,” Streeting wrote.&nbsp;Despite praising Starmer’s role in Labour’s 2024 election victory and his handling of foreign affairs, Streeting accused the Prime Minister of lacking vision and direction following Labour’s recent electoral defeats across England, Scotland and Wales.&nbsp;“Where we need vision, we have a vacuum. Where we need direction, we have drift,” he wrote.&nbsp;Streeting described the recent election results as “unprecedented”, warning that nationalism was now rising across the United Kingdom, including what he called a “dangerous English nationalism represented by Nigel Farage and Reform UK”.&nbsp;He argued that many progressive voters were “losing faith” in Labour and criticised several government decisions, including the controversial winter fuel allowance cuts and the Prime Minister’s “island of strangers” speech.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-invites-xi-to-white-house-on-september-24-1778755078358">Trump in China: US President invites Chinese President Xi and wife to White House on September 24</a>&nbsp;“There are many reasons we could point to: from individual mistakes on policy like the decision to cut the winter fuel allowance to the ‘island of strangers’ speech, all of which have left the country not knowing who we are or what we really stand for,” Streeting said.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;It is now clear you will not lead the Labour Party into the next election&quot; Britain&#39;s health minister Wes Streeting resigns from PM Keir Starmer’s Cabinet, raises questions over Labour&#39;s leadership ahead of the next election <a href="https://t.co/KzGHABzNro">pic.twitter.com/KzGHABzNro</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2054897278817898857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Streeting says Labour needs ‘bold vision’</h3>&nbsp;The departing health secretary said Britain was facing enormous political and economic challenges, including wars in Europe and the Middle East, technological disruption and declining public faith in democracy.&nbsp;“These are big challenges that require a bold vision and bigger solutions than we are offering,” he wrote.&nbsp;Streeting also claimed that Starmer would not lead Labour into the next general election, saying Labour MPs and unions wanted a leadership debate focused on “ideas, not personalities or petty factionalism”.&nbsp;“It is now clear that you will not lead the Labour Party into the next general election,” he stated.&nbsp;Streeting’s resignation comes as the Keir Starmer-led UK government is rocked by a wave of exits following Labour’s disastrous performance in regional elections.&nbsp;&nbsp;The party lost over 450 council seats and surrendered control of 12 local authorities, leading to the resignations of ministers Miatta Fahnbulleh, Jess Phillips, Alex Davies-Jones, and Zubir Ahmed.&nbsp;&nbsp;These junior ministers have joined approximately 90 Labour MPs in calling for the Prime Minister to set a timetable for his departure, citing a lack of pace and vision in the government’s current direction.

Streeting and junior ministers Miatta Fahnbulleh, Jess Phillips, Alex Davies-Jones, and Zubir Ahmed resigned after Labour lost 450 seats and 12 councils. The Starmer government now faces a crisis as nearly 90 MPs demand a leadership departure timetable following the election rout.

UK health secretary Wes Streeting resigned on Thursday (May 14), marking one of the biggest exits from Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Cabinet, after publicly declaring that he had “lost confidence” in the Prime Minister’s leadership. In a lengthy resignation letter, Streeting said he was stepping down despite what he described as major achievements in improving the National Health Service. “Having lost confidence in your leadership, I have concluded that it would be dishonourable and unprincipled to do so,” Streeting wrote. Despite praising Starmer’s role in Labour’s 2024 election victory and his handling of foreign affairs, Streeting accused the Prime Minister of lacking vision and direction following Labour’s recent electoral defeats across England, Scotland and Wales. “Where we need vision, we have a vacuum. Where we need direction, we have drift,” he wrote. Streeting described the recent election results as “unprecedented”, warning that nationalism was now rising across the United Kingdom, including what he called a “dangerous English nationalism represented by Nigel Farage and Reform UK”. He argued that many progressive voters were “losing faith” in Labour and criticised several government decisions, including the controversial winter fuel allowance cuts and the Prime Minister’s “island of strangers” speech. Also Read: Trump in China: US President invites Chinese President Xi and wife to White House on September 24 “There are many reasons we could point to: from individual mistakes on policy like the decision to cut the winter fuel allowance to the ‘island of strangers’ speech, all of which have left the country not knowing who we are or what we really stand for,” Streeting said.

Streeting and junior ministers Miatta Fahnbulleh, Jess Phillips, Alex Davies-Jones, and Zubir Ahmed resigned after Labour lost 450 seats and 12 councils. The Starmer government now faces a crisis as nearly 90 MPs demand a leadership departure timetable following the election rout.

UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigns, says he has ‘lost confidence’ in PM’s leadership

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is struggling to hold on to his position amid growing unrest within the Labour Party. But one official has remained permanent for 15 years at 10 Downing Street - the Chief Mouser, Larry the Cat. Since 2011, the UK has had six different Prime Ministers - David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, Rishi Sunak, and Sir Keir Starmer. Meanwhile, Larry the Cat, who was appointed Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office in 2011, has been a permanent fixture since then. The 19-year-old feline is now going viral amid the growing political crisis in the UK. The Labour Party performed poorly in the local and regional elections recently, leading to fresh calls for Starmer to step down. The cat is regularly seen outside 10 Downing Street, the official residence and office of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.&nbsp;On Tuesday (May 12), Larry was seen going in and out of the residence multiple times as the media camped outside 10 Downing Street. The political scene is hot right now in the UK, as Starmer tried to justify his position after several junior ministers resigned and dozens of Labour lawmakers urged him to quit. Larry the Cat also pitched in with his thoughts on the topic, trying to lighten the heated situation with a quirky quip. The cat’s official X account posted a photo of the cat and wrote, “Whether Starmer stays or goes, we can all agree that me being fed is the most important thing.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;Whether Starmer stays or goes we can all agree that me being fed is the most important thing&quot; <a href="https://t.co/sRSoRPzFoN">pic.twitter.com/sRSoRPzFoN</a>&mdash; Larry the Cat (@Number10cat) <a href="https://twitter.com/Number10cat/status/2053949266897285226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;<h2>People react to Larry the Cat's X post</h2>The post quickly went viral, with over 500 comments and nearly 40,000 likes. Users pitched in with humorous comments, with one saying that Larry will see 20 prime ministers. "Larry is going to see 20 Prime Ministers come on go in his lifetime at this rate," the comment read. Another called for Larry to become the Prime Minister of the country. "Can you just take over and have done with it, please. Larry for PM," a user wrote. Others agreed with Larry that he mattered the most. "Finally, someone talking sense. Everything else can wait, the cat needs feeding," one wrote, as another added, "Absolutely, Larry, you are always at the top of the list to be looked after!"Another user said that Larry's ratings are better than anyone else in the country. "Larry you really are the only one in Downing Street whose approval ratings aren’t currently in the litter box," a comment read.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fourth-minister-resigns-as-pressure-mounts-on-uk-pm-keir-starmer-to-quit-1778605580117">Fourth minister resigns as pressure mounts on UK PM Keir Starmer to quit</a>&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-elections-labour-party-divided-over-calls-for-starmer-s-resignation-1778653383436/embed<h2>Starmer battles political crisis and calls for resignation</h2>Labour took a heavy beating in the recently held local and regional elections. The government has already been under pressure over the rising cost of living, stalled economic growth and policy reversals. The appointment and removal of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to Washington also led to his reputation taking a hit within the party. More than 80 Labour MPs have called for Starmer to step down immediately or set a timeline for the same. However, he still has the support of senior cabinet figures, and over 100 Labour lawmakers signed a statement supporting his leadership.

Chief Mouser at 10 Downing Street, Larry the Cat, has become the most popular individual amidst the political crisis in the UK. A post on its X page mentioned the turmoil and the most important thing at the moment - feeding Larry.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is struggling to hold on to his position amid growing unrest within the Labour Party. But one official has remained permanent for 15 years at 10 Downing Street - the Chief Mouser, Larry the Cat. Since 2011, the UK has had six different Prime Ministers - David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, Rishi Sunak, and Sir Keir Starmer. Meanwhile, Larry the Cat, who was appointed Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office in 2011, has been a permanent fixture since then. The 19-year-old feline is now going viral amid the growing political crisis in the UK. The Labour Party performed poorly in the local and regional elections recently, leading to fresh calls for Starmer to step down. The cat is regularly seen outside 10 Downing Street, the official residence and office of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. On Tuesday (May 12), Larry was seen going in and out of the residence multiple times as the media camped outside 10 Downing Street. The political scene is hot right now in the UK, as Starmer tried to justify his position after several junior ministers resigned and dozens of Labour lawmakers urged him to quit. Larry the Cat also pitched in with his thoughts on the topic, trying to lighten the heated situation with a quirky quip. The cat’s official X account posted a photo of the cat and wrote, “Whether Starmer stays or goes, we can all agree that me being fed is the most important thing.”

Chief Mouser at 10 Downing Street, Larry the Cat, has become the most popular individual amidst the political crisis in the UK. A post on its X page mentioned the turmoil and the most important thing at the moment - feeding Larry.

6 PMs in 15 years: Chief Mouser, Larry the Cat, weighs in on UK's political crisis - 'Whether Starmer stays or goes...'

Catherine West has warned Labour ministers to challenge Keir Starmer by Monday or she will begin gathering support for a leadership contest. Starmer faces mounting pressure after Labour’s poor local election results.

Can Keir Starmer survive as UK PM amid leadership crisis in Labour Party? Possible scenarios EXPLAINED

The political world is in a tailspin after newly released documents, uncovered through the Epstein Files Transparency Act, revealed the shocking depth of the relationship between Peter Mandelson and Jeffrey Epstein.

'Partner in crime': Keir Starmer appointed Epstein's 'Best Pal' as UK's ambassador to US

United Kingdom is staring at a historic collapse of political stability. If Keir Starmer bows to the immense pressure following the Peter Mandelson-Epstein revelations, he would mark the sixth Prime Minister to resign since 2016

'Kingdom of Crisis': Keir Starmer could become the 6th UK PM to resign in just 10 years due to Epstein files

Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, is facing a high-voltage drama, and his career is at stake over the Epstein Files' fresh revelations. His problems escalated after a top member of his party, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, called for his resignation. This was over a former ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson, who was mentioned in the Jeffrey Epstein Files. As the fresh documents, released a week ago, revealed that Mandelson had strong ties with the late sex offender, Starmer is facing extreme pressure as he was the one who appointed Mandelson to his administration. The documents released by the US Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed that Mandelson had maintained a close friendship with the American sex offender, even after his conviction. Epstein was found guilty of solicitation of sex with a minor in 2008 and was jailed.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disgusting-behaviour-by-president-most-openly-racist-trump-shares-video-depicting-obamas-as-monkeys-sparks-outrage-1770392209346">‘Disgusting behaviour by President’: ‘Most openly racist’ Trump shares video depicting Obamas as monkeys, sparks outrage</a>&nbsp;The documents also revealed that Mandelson may have received payments from Epstein and passed sensitive information to him during the financial crisis of 2008 - 2009. After the revelation, Starmer admitted that he was aware of Mandelson and Epstein's close ties when he appointed the former as ambassador. But, he said, Mandelson lied about the extent of the friendship with Epstein. The issue escalated so much so that two of the key members of Starmer's circle resigned, and a third is under pressure to go. Moreover, Sarwar called for Starmer to do the same. Although, for now, a few members from his cabinet have come forward in support of Starmer.<h2>What did Sarwar say?</h2>Sarwar said there had been "many achievements" under the Labour government, but voters "can't hear them and can't see them" because "the leadership in Downing Street have become a huge distraction". He added that the announcement was "not easy and not without pain", saying that Sir Keir was a "decent man" but that his "first loyalty" was to Scotland.<h2>Support for Starmer</h2>After Sarwar's call, many cabinet ministers came out in support of Starmer, which led to the end of the coup, which never actual was there. Former deputy prime minister and a senior member of the Labour Party, Angela Rayner, said in an X post that while she did not defend Starmer’s judgement, “the worst possible response [to the scandal] would be to play party politics or factional games.”&nbsp;“I urge all my colleagues to come together, remember our values and put them into practice as a team,” she wrote on X, adding: “The PrimeMinister has my full support in leading us to that end.”<h2>'I'm not prepared to walk away'</h2>Meanwhile, Starmer told MPs that he is not prepared to walk away from his mandate. "I have had my detractors every step along the way, and I've got them now," Starmer said, adding: "Detractors that don't want a Labour government at all, and certainly not one to succeed."&nbsp;"But I'll tell you this, after having fought so hard for the chance to change our country, I'm not prepared to walk away from my mandate and my responsibility to my country, or to plunge us into chaos, as others have done," he added.

Keir Starmer faces intense pressure after Epstein Files linked his appointee Peter Mandelson to Jeffrey Epstein, triggering internal Labour revolt, resignation calls, and a leadership crisis without a clear challenger.

Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, is facing a high-voltage drama, and his career is at stake over the Epstein Files' fresh revelations. His problems escalated after a top member of his party, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, called for his resignation. This was over a former ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson, who was mentioned in the Jeffrey Epstein Files. As the fresh documents, released a week ago, revealed that Mandelson had strong ties with the late sex offender, Starmer is facing extreme pressure as he was the one who appointed Mandelson to his administration. The documents released by the US Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed that Mandelson had maintained a close friendship with the American sex offender, even after his conviction. Epstein was found guilty of solicitation of sex with a minor in 2008 and was jailed. Also read: ‘Disgusting behaviour by President’: ‘Most openly racist’ Trump shares video depicting Obamas as monkeys, sparks outrage The documents also revealed that Mandelson may have received payments from Epstein and passed sensitive information to him during the financial crisis of 2008 - 2009. After the revelation, Starmer admitted that he was aware of Mandelson and Epstein's close ties when he appointed the former as ambassador. But, he said, Mandelson lied about the extent of the friendship with Epstein. The issue escalated so much so that two of the key members of Starmer's circle resigned, and a third is under pressure to go. Moreover, Sarwar called for Starmer to do the same. Although, for now, a few members from his cabinet have come forward in support of Starmer. What did Sarwar say? Sarwar said there had been "many achievements" under the Labour government, but voters "can't hear them and can't see them" because "the leadership in Downing Street have become a huge distraction". He added that the announcement was "not easy and not without pain", saying that Sir Keir was a "decent man" but that his "first loyalty" was to Scotland. Support for Starmer After Sarwar's call, many cabinet ministers came out in support of Starmer, which led to the end of the coup, which never actual was there. Former deputy prime minister and a senior member of the Labour Party, Angela Rayner, said in an X post that while she did not defend Starmer’s judgement, “the worst possible response [to the scandal] would be to play party politics or factional games.” “I urge all my colleagues to come together, remember our values and put them into practice as a team,” she wrote on X, adding: “The PrimeMinister has my full support in leading us to that end.” 'I'm not prepared to walk away' Meanwhile, Starmer told MPs that he is not prepared to walk away from his mandate. "I have had my detractors every step along the way, and I've got them now," Starmer said, adding: "Detractors that don't want a Labour government at all, and certainly not one to succeed." "But I'll tell you this, after having fought so hard for the chance to change our country, I'm not prepared to walk away from my mandate and my responsibility to my country, or to plunge us into chaos, as others have done," he added.

Keir Starmer faces intense pressure after Epstein Files linked his appointee Peter Mandelson to Jeffrey Epstein, triggering internal Labour revolt, resignation calls, and a leadership crisis without a clear challenger.&nbsp;

The coup without a leader, and why Keir Starmer was the target | WION Explains

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The coup without a leader, and why Keir Starmer was the target | WION Explains