Starmer remains PM, doesn't want to return the country to chaos

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Sunday that he would remain in office despite falling support in the polls and speculation about his possible removal. In an interview with the BBC, he stressed that it was not in the national interest to repeat the chaos of frequent leadership changes, as happened under the Conservative government.

The Labour Party, which Starmer leads, is currently lagging behind the populist Reform UK just 18 months after winning the election. The prime minister's personal approval rating has fallen to historic lows ahead of May's local elections in England, Wales and Scotland.

But Starmer insists that these elections will not be a "referendum" on his government. He dismissed speculation of a resignation and said Labour would fight for every vote.

The Prime Minister also reminded the Commons that the constant changes of leadership under the Conservatives had led to "utter chaos" which he did not want to repeat. He recalled how Boris Johnson, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak led the country in quick succession before the Conservatives were defeated.

In Thursday's New Year speech, the Prime Minister also promised to improve public services and reduce the cost of living.

(reuters, max)