**Starmer Faces Pressure to Resign Amid Declining Support within Labour Party**
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly considering stepping down as early as Monday, according to a report by the Telegraph. The speculation comes amid increasing pressure on Starmer following significant losses for the Labour Party in local elections and a recent by-election win for Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.
The Labour Party experienced a substantial setback in May, losing nearly 1,500 council seats, which has led to intensified calls for Starmer's resignation. The situation escalated further after Burnham's decisive victory in the Makerfield by-election on Thursday, which has been interpreted as a sign of shifting support within the party. Burnham is believed to have the backing of approximately 300 Labour MPs, leading some allies to suggest that a transition of leadership could occur without contest.
A senior government official indicated that there has been notable movement among Cabinet ministers since Burnham's win, suggesting that Starmer may be recognizing the gravity of the situation. The official remarked that Starmer is now focused on "shoring up his legacy" as the pressure mounts.
One Labour MP, who had previously supported Starmer, expressed that the Prime Minister's support has dwindled to a minimal circle of "friends and family." This MP claimed that the only remaining supporters are those with personal connections to Starmer or long-term friendships, indicating a significant loss of confidence among party members.
The atmosphere within the party has become increasingly tense, with another government source warning that if Starmer does not resign, Labour could face a wave of resignations. This sentiment reflects a growing frustration among party members regarding Starmer's leadership and the party's direction.
A former MP, who had backed Starmer until recently, described him as "a goner," suggesting that Burnham is in a stronger position to unite the party ahead of the next general election. This perspective highlights the urgency felt by some within Labour to shift leadership in order to better position the party for future electoral challenges.
Several senior Cabinet ministers, including Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, have reportedly urged Starmer to outline a timetable for his departure rather than engage in a potentially divisive leadership contest. Their calls for a clear succession plan reflect concerns about the party's stability and the need for a cohesive strategy moving forward.
Starmer's tenure as Prime Minister began with a landslide victory in the 2024 general election, but his popularity has since declined sharply. Factors contributing to this decline include the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and the fallout from the UK rape gangs scandal. A YouGov poll conducted in mid-June revealed that Starmer's approval rating had plummeted to just 18%, with a staggering 74% of the British public expressing negative views about his leadership.
Despite the mounting speculation regarding his potential resignation, Downing Street has dismissed claims that Starmer is preparing to step down. Officials have reiterated his commitment to resist any leadership challenges, arguing that a leadership battle would lead to chaos within the party.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on Starmer and the Labour Party as they navigate this critical juncture. The coming days may prove pivotal in determining the future leadership of the party and its strategy leading into the next general election.