Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy has affirmed that Sir Keir Starmer will continue as Prime Minister without setting a timetable for his departure, urging Labour colleagues to end internal strife or risk losing the next general election.
Lammy warns against 'own goals'
Speaking to broadcasters on Monday, Mr Lammy described the past 10 days of infighting as a 'spectacular own goal' for the party. He stressed that continued 'internecine warfare' would only benefit Reform UK and its leader Nigel Farage. 'Now is the time to stop the own goals, to get on the pitch, to pass the ball amongst ourselves, to play in the right direction, to score some goals on behalf of the British public,' he told Sky News.
No timetable for departure
Mr Lammy insisted that Sir Keir remains 'the most resilient person I know' and that there would be no timetables for his exit. 'I spoke to him twice yesterday. He has a strength of character, a fighting experience. There will be no timetables. What there is is getting on with the business of Government,' he said.
When asked about Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy's comments that whether Sir Keir would contest a leadership challenge was 'a very personal decision', Mr Lammy declined to confirm the Prime Minister would stand but stated he has been 'crystal clear he fights on' and has his full support.
Brexit debate reignites
The leadership turmoil has reopened the Brexit debate among potential successors. Wes Streeting, who resigned as health secretary, signalled support for rejoining the EU, drawing criticism from Mr Burnham's allies who fear it could undermine his campaign in the Leave-voting Makerfield constituency. Mr Lammy, bound by collective responsibility, insisted the Government remains 'absolutely committed' to its Brexit red lines, despite having previously suggested economic benefits of returning to the customs union.
Labour MP Jonathan Hinder called the reopening of the Brexit debate a 'staggering level of out of touch', warning that the party faces an 'existential crisis' after losing support in working-class heartlands to Reform UK. Mr Burnham sought to downplay his own pro-rejoin stance, arguing for a 'long-term case' but not campaigning on the issue.
Reform UK, which is second in Makerfield, plans to exploit Mr Burnham's previous EU support as it campaigns in the constituency. The Labour Government has pledged not to rejoin the customs union, single market, or restore freedom of movement.
