Speaking to the Guardian and others, Starmer's most senior political aides warned that he would fight any reckless attempt to challenge him after the budget or May elections, while voicing fears that Wes Streeting, the health secretary, was among those manoeuvring to replace him. Instead of putting to bed any questions about his future, the briefing has sparked fresh questions about Starmer's future and thrown the spotlight on Streeting as a potential successor.