Keir Starmer is close to making an announcement about his departure from Downing Street, possibly as early as today, following a weekend of contemplation with his wife Victoria. An early announcement would give the Prime Minister a chance to preempt Andy Burnham’s entrance to Parliament later today, with the former Manchester mayor set to be sworn in as an MP, signaling a potential challenge to Starmer’s leadership of the Labour party.
Starmer, accompanied by his wife Victoria, spent the weekend at Chequers, their countryside retreat in the Chiltern Hills of Buckinghamshire. Victoria has been a crucial advisor to Starmer, urging him to persevere amidst mounting pressure to step down following disappointing local election results last month. Reports suggest that Victoria was displeased with the actions of Burnham and Wes Streeting, who resigned as Health Secretary to add pressure on Starmer.
Despite Starmer’s repeated promises to fend off any leadership challenges, Andy Burnham’s recent victory in the Makerfield by-election has strengthened calls for Starmer to resign. Several MPs, including Cabinet ministers like Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, have privately acknowledged that Starmer’s time may be coming to an end.
Over the weekend, Starmer sought advice from close allies and Victoria while contemplating his next steps. Speculation suggests that Starmer may consider staying in his position until Labour’s conference in September. An ally emphasized that Starmer is genuinely deliberating and seeking guidance, urging for a calm approach without public division or criticism.
Education minister Baroness Jacqui Smith mentioned that Starmer will make his own decision about resigning, highlighting his dedication to the country’s interests over political considerations. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump, known for his confrontations with Starmer, issued a critical message on social media about Starmer’s perceived failures in immigration and energy policies.
As the situation around Starmer’s leadership unfolds, the public awaits his decision amidst political turbulence and external commentary.