Wes Streeting has resigned as Health Secretary, delivering a stinging critique of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's leadership and calling for a contest to replace him. The move plunges the Labour Party into its deepest crisis since taking office, with the potential for a full-scale leadership battle.
Streeting's Resignation Letter
In his resignation letter, Streeting blamed the party's poor election results on the government's unpopularity, citing policy missteps such as the winter fuel allowance cut and the 'island of strangers' speech. He argued that the party has lost its identity, stating: 'Where we need vision, we have a vacuum. Where we need direction, we have drift.'
Streeting praised Starmer's statesmanship but insisted he cannot lead Labour into the next election. He urged the Prime Minister to allow a broad field of candidates, potentially including Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who would need to secure a parliamentary seat first.
Starmer's Response
Sir Keir expressed regret at Streeting's departure, thanking him for his work on the NHS. He wrote: 'I am truly sorry you will no longer be sat at the Cabinet table... I hope we can work together to show that Labour in power can address the problems our opponents exploit.' Number 10 insists Starmer will fight any leadership challenge.
Leadership Contenders
Streeting's resignation may trigger a contest with several potential candidates. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, cleared by HMRC over her tax affairs, is seen as a possible contender. Others include Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, Armed Forces Minister Al Carns, and Andy Burnham. However, no single candidate has yet united the 81 MPs needed to force a formal challenge.
Party Reaction
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson disagreed with Streeting's position, calling for the party to 'draw a line' under the turmoil. Skills Minister Baroness Jacqui Smith expressed regret but opposed a leadership contest. Labour backbenchers suggested Streeting lacks the numbers to mount a successful bid, with one stating: 'He's screwed himself good and proper.'
Conservative Response
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accused Labour of descending into 'civil war,' saying: 'While they are sharpening their knives... nobody is running the country.'
The coming days will determine whether Starmer can survive this rebellion or whether Labour will face a protracted leadership battle.
