Streeting Weighs Labour Leadership Bid

Former British Health Secretary Wes Streeting has said he is prepared to trigger a leadership contest against Keir Starmer as early as next week, arguing that the party must end its uncertainty and political paralysis.

Streeting, who resigned from the government last month in protest against the prime minister’s policies, claims he has the support of enough MPs to launch a challenge.

He said, however, that he would prefer Starmer to step aside voluntarily rather than be forced into a contest by Labour MPs.

During the G7 summit, Starmer reiterated that he would fight to keep his position if formally challenged. He also warned that internal party conflict would not benefit the country.

Labour is meanwhile awaiting the result of the by-election in Makerfield. If Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham wins and returns to Parliament, he could become the main challenger to the current prime minister.

Pressure on Starmer has also increased following the resignation of Defense Minister John Healey, who sharply criticized the prime minister’s approach to defense funding as he left office.

(reuters, bak)