Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has publicly acknowledged that speculation about a challenge to his leadership is now "pretty rife," as he faced a bruising interrogation from senior MPs over a spate of damaging briefings against his own Cabinet.
Intense Grilling Over No10 Conduct
Sir Keir was put under intense pressure during a session of the powerful Commons Liaison Committee, where he was repeatedly questioned on the conduct of his Downing Street aides. MPs challenged him over how he would deal with allies who were operating unacceptably and engaging in briefings designed to undermine ministers.
The Prime Minister appeared to squirm as he was pressed on whether leadership speculation was considered a purely party political matter under conduct rules. "No, I'm not sure I can," he said ruefully. "It seems to be pretty rife."
The 'Hit Job' That Backfired
The tense exchanges follow an apparent failed attempt last month to curb manoeuvring by Health Secretary Wes Streeting. A so-called 'hit job' briefing against him backfired spectacularly, prompting a furious public response from Mr Streeting, who demanded the sacking of those responsible.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has also been drawn into the controversy, facing accusations of allowing selective leaks of pre-Budget forecasts to prepare the public for significant tax increases—a claim she firmly denies.
Starmer's Pledge to Act
Addressing the committee, Sir Keir stated unequivocally that briefing against Cabinet ministers was "completely unacceptable." While he said he had "no reason" to believe his No10 team was involved in the attacks on Mr Streeting, he stressed he would not hesitate to act if evidence emerged.
"Obviously, I'll wait for the inquiry, but I mean the inquiry will go wherever the evidence takes it," the Prime Minister asserted. "There's nothing to inhibit where they will go, and I'll take appropriate action if there's a finding."
He drew parallels with his previous role, vowing: "I'll get to the bottom of these leaks. They are in any organisations, they're intolerable. I took the same action when I was head of the Crown Prosecution Service."
Sir Keir revealed he had sought personal assurances from special advisers that Downing Street was not the source of the briefings, adding: "I didn't just take everything at face value. I looked at other bits of evidence to assure myself." He concluded by insisting he had been "clear and consistent" with all staff that such behaviour would not be tolerated.
