Keir Starmer to Meet Wes Streeting Amid Leadership Pressure Before King’s Speech
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to hold crucial talks with Health Secretary Wes Streeting ahead of the government’s annual King’s Speech amid growing political turmoil inside the Labour Party.
The high-level meeting comes after four government ministers resigned on Tuesday, including Jess Phillips, while more than 80 Labour MPs reportedly called for Starmer to step down following major local election losses.
Labour suffered nearly 1,500 council seat losses across England last week, intensifying pressure on the prime minister’s leadership.
Wes Streeting is widely viewed as a potential leadership contender, although his allies deny he is attempting to challenge Starmer directly.
Another possible rival being discussed is Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, though he would first need to return to Parliament through a by-election.
Despite mounting criticism, Starmer has vowed to continue leading the government, saying Britain expects leaders to “get on with governing.”
The King’s Speech, delivered by King Charles III in the House of Lords, is expected to unveil more than 35 new bills focused on the economy, energy, healthcare, and national security.