Labour MPs Speculate on Sir Keir Starmer’s Possible Exit
Labour MPs are increasingly considering the possibility that Sir Keir Starmer might step down as Prime Minister in the New Year, ahead of a potential leadership challenge. This speculation comes at a critical time for the PM, as the country prepares for one of the most anticipated Budgets in recent history. Amidst this, there are growing concerns about Starmer’s demeanor, with some describing it as ‘new zen-like mood’.
Despite Labour’s current standing at 18 percent in the polls—tied with the Greens—there are signs of internal unrest within the party. Cabinet members are reportedly vying for positions, and some backbenchers have noted a shift in Starmer’s behavior. One such MP mentioned that during a recent meeting, Starmer appeared unusually calm, unlike someone who is carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders.
A minister also pointed out an unusual letter that Starmer wrote to his son for International Men’s Day, suggesting that it felt somewhat valedictory. This has raised eyebrows among colleagues, as Starmer is not typically open about personal matters.
The upcoming May local elections are seen as a potential turning point. If Labour performs poorly, it could trigger a leadership contest. In response to reports of potential challengers, including Angela Rayner, Wes Streeting, Shabana Mahmood, and Andy Burnham, Starmer expressed his desire to remain in No 10 until 2034.
Downing Street chief of staff Morgan McSweeney has reassured MPs that the situation can be turned around. He has also hinted that Starmer would fight any challenge, a message some believe is intended to encourage the Prime Minister to stay rather than resign at the first sign of trouble.
Recent polling data from Lord Ashcroft, published in the Mail on Sunday, reveals a bleak outlook for Starmer. Only nine percent of voters believe he will be Prime Minister after the next election, compared to 30 percent for Nigel Farage. A staggering 69 percent think that Starmer’s party is divided.
Voters are also pessimistic about Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Budget announcement. Sixty-eight percent believe they will be worse off personally, and 63 percent think the country will be poorer. Additionally, 61 percent oppose her plan to lift the two-child benefit cap.
The poll also touched on the controversy surrounding the BBC’s apology to Donald Trump after it spliced parts of a 2021 speech. Over a third of respondents felt the BBC displayed Left-wing bias, while only 22 percent considered it impartial.
A separate poll of Labour members by Survation for LabourList confirmed Starmer’s precarious position. It found that Andy Burnham, Ed Miliband, Angela Rayner, and Wes Streeting would all win any head-to-head leadership contest against him.
Key Questions Facing Labour
With Labour in a fragile position and public support dwindling, several questions loom large:
- Could the May elections mark the end of Sir Keir Starmer’s tenure as Prime Minister, as discontent grows within No 10?
- Will Starmer’s controversial reshuffle help save his struggling government, or is Labour doomed as their poll numbers hit rock bottom?
- Is Starmer at risk of being ousted as Prime Minister due to voter dissatisfaction over economic missteps and rising immigration issues?
- Will Labour tensions escalate, leading to a leadership challenge as poll ratings continue to decline and political maneuvering intensifies?
- Could the Labour Party’s dire situation lead to a dramatic downfall for Sir Keir Starmer amid widespread discontent and leadership speculation?
