The UK government enters the state opening of parliament this Wednesday under a cloud of severe internal instability. While Keir Starmer remains prime minister, his authority has been described as “shredded” following two days of intense political drama and confusion.
King Charles is scheduled to set out a year-long legislative programme, but the event is overshadowed by fears among some allies that the current government may not last the week. An opposition MP characterized the upcoming ceremony as a “King’s speech by a lame-duck PM.”
Election Losses and a Failed Reset
The current crisis follows heavy losses for the Labour Party in elections held last Thursday across England, Scotland, and Wales. In an attempt to stabilize his position, Starmer delivered a speech on Monday intended as a “make-or-break reset,” though it was widely viewed as a “dud.”
Critics argued the prime minister’s policy proposals—including incremental moves toward closer EU ties and the formal nationalization of British Steel—were insufficient. One MP remarked that Starmer’s approach is to “be radical by moving a paperclip three inches to the left.”
A Divided Party
The internal rift is starkly illustrated by competing factions within the party. A list of 90-and-rising backbenchers has called for Starmer to step down, while a separate letter signed by more than 100 MPs argues that a leadership race would be “ludicrous and damaging.”
Almost a quarter of Starmer’s MPs have formally requested his resignation, either immediately or at an agreed future date. This unrest has been compounded by a series of ministerial resignations, including those of Jess Phillips, Miatta Fahnbulleh, Alex Davies-Jones, and Zubir Ahmed.
Phillips condemned the prime minister as being too “process-driven” and weak to implement meaningful change. Meanwhile, bond markets have begun to “wobble” in anticipation of further political turmoil.
Cabinet Pressure and Potential Successors
The pressure has reached the highest levels of government. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood reportedly told Starmer he needs to make way for a successor, with other senior ministers discussing a “responsible, dignified, orderly” exit.
Despite this, Starmer remained defiant during a Tuesday cabinet meeting, stating, “The Labour party has a process for challenging a leader and that has not been triggered.” He insisted that the cabinet must focus on governing.
The Race for Succession
While no formal move has been made, several figures are viewed as likely challengers:
- Wes Streeting: The health secretary may have an incentive to strike early.
- Andy Burnham: The Mayor of Greater Manchester is seen as a strong contender, though he would first need to win a byelection to return to parliament.
- Ed Miliband: The energy secretary has publicly stated he does not wish to resume the leadership, though allies suggest he might consider it to prevent a Streeting leadership.
- Angela Rayner: The former deputy prime minister is also viewed as a potential challenger.
What Happens Next
The immediate focus remains the state opening of parliament. However, the coming days could see the UK welcoming its seventh prime minister in just under a decade if the internal rebellion intensifies.
While Starmer has rejected the notion that the country is “ungovernable,” the continued divide between his supporters and those demanding his exit may challenge that view. A possible next step could involve a more coordinated effort by cabinet ministers or a successful attempt to trigger the formal leadership process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Keir Starmer facing calls to resign?
The pressure stems from heavy local election losses last Thursday and a Monday “reset” speech that was widely considered a failure by his own MPs.
Who has already resigned from the government?
Recent departures include safeguarding minister Jess Phillips, communities minister Miatta Fahnbulleh, victims minister Alex Davies-Jones, and health minister Zubir Ahmed.
What is the “process” Starmer is referring to?
He is referring to the Labour Party’s internal mechanism for challenging a leader, which requires a specific number of MPs to trigger a contest—a process he claims has not yet happened.
Do you believe a leader can effectively govern once they lose the broad support of their own party?
