It has been just 496 days since Sir Keir Starmer secured a massive general election victory, yet this seems like another era, particularly today. Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who was the government's primary spokesperson in the media this morning, accused top government officials of fostering a 'toxic culture' and sexism, while demanding the termination of unnamed Downing Street officials.
His comments were a response to briefings signaling Sir Keir's intent to resist challenges to his leadership, with Streeting cited as a possible rival.
What's Behind Today's Events?
The situation has both long-term and immediate causes.
Long-term causes indicate widespread government unpopularity, demonstrated consistently in polls, with some suggesting Sir Keir as one of the most unpopular prime ministers in British history. Labour MPs, facing difficult campaigns, fear for their positions, urging considerations of a leadership change to improve their political fortunes.
It was generally expected that May's elections in Scotland, Wales, and parts of England would serve as a critical moment for Labour. Yet, with unchanging bleak polls and apprehensions over a potentially controversial Budget, murmurs for an earlier leadership challenge have intensified.
An anonymous Labour MP commented, "It’s irresponsible to wait after local elections as it jeopardizes my activist base." This anticipation of an early challenge has led to an unusual briefing by the prime minister's allies to the BBC and others, hinting that Sir Keir would confront any leadership threat, aiming to bolster his stance by reminding MPs of the political and financial risks involved in a leadership change.
This approach was risky enough. Usually, advertising potential weaknesses isn't political practice, but naming Streeting as a candidate for leadership heightened tensions. Concerns also arise about other potential challengers: Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, Energy Secretary and former leader Ed Miliband, and Lucy Powell, the new Deputy Leader elected despite Sir Keir's preferences.