Starmer Considers Resignation After Makerfield By-Election Defeat, Burnham Emerges as Successor
Signs are increasing that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer may announce a plan to stand down as early as Monday. Although Starmer has consistently stated his intention to fight any leadership challenge, the mood within government circles has perceptibly shifted over the past 48 hours.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle articulated the evolving situation, stating the Prime Minister would act in the "best interests of the country" and was reflecting on current political realities. This comes as Labour MPs increasingly assert that Starmer's personal unpopularity is hindering the party's electoral prospects.
Burnham's By-Election Win Seals Starmer's Fate
The decisive outcome of the Makerfield by-election, where Andy Burnham secured a comfortable victory against Reform, appears to be the catalyst for the current leadership crisis. For Labour MPs concerned about confronting Nigel Farage's party, Burnham now presents a leader with a proven track record.
Dozens of MPs had already called for Sir Keir's resignation, with that number growing significantly since Thursday. Senior cabinet ministers, including Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, have reportedly advised the Prime Minister to step down, yet remain in their posts, underscoring the erosion of Starmer's authority.
Succession and Transition Uncertainties
With Burnham now the clear favourite, speculation mounts regarding the leadership contest itself. While former health secretary Wes Streeting had indicated his intention to stand, allies now suggest discussions are underway between potential candidates for Number 10 regarding the future.
Disagreements persist within the parliamentary Labour party concerning the timeline for an "orderly" transition. Some influential figures in Burnham's camp advocate for him to assume leadership around the annual Labour conference in late September, believing this would allow ample preparation time. However, others argue such a three-month interregnum would paralyse government and generate incessant speculation, hindering Burnham's ability to define his agenda.
A critical point of contention is the appointment of a Chancellor. While Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood were previously considered, Mahmood is now expected to retain her current role. The prospect of Miliband as Chancellor is reportedly causing "serious consternation" among the right of the Labour Party, viewed as a clear shift leftwards. Sharon Graham, General Secretary of Unite, has publicly urged Burnham not to appoint Miliband.
Burnham and his allies have maintained a low profile this weekend, seemingly allowing Starmer space to consider his future after the Makerfield result. The coming days are expected to be highly consequential for the Labour Party and the country.
