Sir Keir Starmer is facing renewed pressure over his leadership as senior Labour figures increasingly prepare for the possibility of a change in Downing Street.
The prime minister has repeatedly insisted that he will remain in office and fight any formal challenge. However, the mood within the government appears to have changed sharply following Andy Burnham’s convincing victory in the Makerfield by-election.
Some government insiders now believe Starmer could announce a timetable for his departure as early as Monday, although no formal decision has been confirmed.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle offered a carefully worded response when questioned about the prime minister’s position on the BBC. He said Starmer would do “what is in the best interests of the country,” while acknowledging that he was considering the political realities facing his administration.
Concerns about Starmer’s leadership had already been growing among Labour MPs before the by-election. Many believe the party’s difficulties are linked directly to his personal standing with voters, particularly in areas where Reform UK has been gaining support.
Burnham’s clear victory has strengthened the argument that Labour may need a new leader to rebuild its electoral coalition. His success against Reform has also given supporters evidence that he can win back voters attracted to Nigel Farage’s party.
Several senior ministers, including Yvette Cooper, Shabana Mahmood, and Heidi Alexander, are understood to have privately advised Starmer to step aside. Their continued presence in government has been interpreted by some MPs as a sign that his authority has weakened significantly.
Burnham is now widely regarded as the leading candidate to succeed him. Wes Streeting has previously indicated that he would enter a leadership contest, although his allies have suggested that discussions between possible candidates could help avoid a prolonged and divisive battle.
Labour figures remain divided over how quickly any handover should take place. Some favour a transition around the party conference in September, giving a new leader time to prepare for government. Others fear that waiting several months would leave the administration paralysed by speculation.
“His opportunity to define himself would be thrown off by endless speculation,” a minister said.
Attention has also turned to Burnham’s possible Cabinet appointments. Ed Miliband has been discussed as a potential chancellor, although the prospect has alarmed MPs on Labour’s right.
“If he picks Miliband, about 100 Labour MPs will be furious from the outset,” a minister said.
Burnham and his allies have remained largely silent, leaving Starmer to consider his next move as pressure continues to build.