Starmer to promise bolder action as leadership threats mount

"The prime minister will seek to reset his premiership in a speech on Monday, after heavy election losses left him facing renewed calls to quit. Growing numbers of Labour MPs went public with calls for him to go over the weekend, with potential challenger Angela Rayner saying the party needed to do more to appeal to voters whose living standards had been squeezed. It comes as backbencher Catherine West said she could try to trigger a leadership contest in the wake of his speech."

"At the heart of the speech will be an ambition to put Britain “at the heart of Europe” by seeking closer ties with the EU, a move he said would “define” his government and strengthen the UK's economy, trade and defence. The prime minister will also say that the government's legislative plans for the coming year, to be unveiled at the King's Speech on Wednesday, will show “hope, urgency and exactly whose side we are on”."

"The north London MP has threatened to begin canvassing support if Sir Keir's address leaves her “dissatisfied” with his plan to turn the party's fortunes around. Although she has made clear she is not seeking to replace the prime minister herself, her move could provide a route for other contenders to come forward, including former Deputy Prime Minister Rayner and Health Secretary Wes Streeting."

"Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham is also seen as a potential leadership rival, although a speedy contest would hamper his chances because he would first need to become an MP to stand as a candidate. Monday's address could prove to be the most important speech of Sir Keir's premiership so far, after the disastrous results at this week's elections left his leadership position more vulnerable than ever."

Keir Starmer will deliver a speech on Monday aimed at resetting his premiership after heavy election losses and renewed calls for him to quit. More Labour MPs have publicly urged him to go, with Angela Rayner arguing the party must do more to appeal to voters whose living standards have been squeezed. Catherine West said she could try to trigger a leadership contest if she is dissatisfied with Starmer’s plan, while not seeking to replace him herself. Potential contenders include Rayner and Wes Streeting, with Andy Burnham also viewed as a rival. The speech is expected to focus on putting Britain “at the heart of Europe” through closer EU ties, and on legislative plans to deliver “hope, urgency” and clarity about whose side the government is on.

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