**Pressure Mounts on Keir Starmer to Resign Amid Local Election Losses**
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing increasing calls for his resignation from within the Labour Party, as reports indicate that a significant number of Labour MPs and party figures are urging him to step down as early as this weekend. The Guardian has cited lawmakers and government sources in its coverage of the growing discontent among party members.
The pressure on Starmer intensified following the Labour Party's disappointing performance in the recent local elections, where the party lost approximately 1,500 seats. This electoral setback has prompted many within the party to question Starmer's leadership capabilities. The situation escalated further after former Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election, a victory that has been interpreted by some as a potential rallying point for a leadership challenge.
According to sources within the party, as many as 200 Labour MPs—nearly half of the party’s representation in the House of Commons—would support Burnham if he decided to run for the leadership. A cabinet source indicated that some ministers are preparing to advise Starmer against contesting any leadership challenge, suggesting a growing consensus among party members that a change in leadership may be necessary.
"I think everyone thinks it is over and everyone wants it to be a dignified, orderly exit," the source stated. Senior Labour figures have reportedly warned that if Starmer does not resign or agree to a transition plan, he could face intervention from his own cabinet in the coming week.
MPs have expressed that there is a general agreement within the party that Starmer should "do the right thing this weekend" and step aside. In his victory speech after the Makerfield by-election, Burnham characterized the moment as Labour’s "final chance" to establish "a new politics," emphasizing that there would be no second opportunity for the party to make significant changes.
Despite the mounting pressure, Starmer has maintained his stance, asserting that he would contest any leadership challenge. "If there is a contest, just to be clear with you, then, yes, I will run," he stated to reporters in London, arguing that a leadership challenge would lead the party into chaos.
Starmer's popularity has significantly declined amid ongoing issues such as the cost-of-living crisis and the fallout from the UK rape gangs scandal. Recent polling data reflects this decline, with a mid-June YouGov poll showing his approval rating at just 18%, while 74% of respondents viewed his premiership negatively. An Ipsos survey published this week indicated a favorability rating of 20% for Starmer, with 58% of the public holding an unfavorable view of him. In contrast, Burnham was noted as Labour’s most popular politician, with a favorability rating of 26% and a negative view from 33% of respondents.
As the situation develops, the Labour Party appears to be at a crossroads, with the potential for significant changes in leadership on the horizon. The coming days will likely be crucial in determining the future direction of the party and the fate of its current leader.