UK health minister resigns amid growing pressure on Starmer

Britain’s Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, has resigned from Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government, deepening the political crisis facing the Labour leader amid mounting speculation over a possible leadership challenge.

 

Streeting announced his resignation on Thursday, saying he had “lost confidence” in Starmer’s leadership, though he stopped short of formally declaring a bid for the top job.

 

In a resignation letter published on X, Streeting told Starmer: “It is now clear that you will not lead the Labour Party into the next general election.”

 

He also called for “the best possible field of candidates” in any future leadership contest, fuelling speculation that he could position himself as a contender.

 

The development comes days after poor local and regional election results intensified pressure on Starmer, whose Labour government came to power in 2024 after ending 14 years of Conservative rule.

 

Labour reportedly suffered major setbacks in recent polls, including losses to the right-wing Reform UK party and the Green Party, while also losing control of the Welsh parliament for the first time.

 

Former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner also added to the uncertainty after confirming she had resolved issues surrounding a previous tax controversy, potentially clearing the path for her participation in any future leadership race.

 

Although Rayner said she would not trigger a challenge herself, she urged Starmer to “reflect” on his position.

 

The crisis has exposed deep divisions within Labour, with reports indicating that more than 80 Labour MPs have called on Starmer to step aside, while over 100 lawmakers continue to back him.

 

Despite the growing pressure, Starmer has insisted he will remain in office and fight any leadership challenge.

 

His spokesperson said on Thursday that the prime minister was “getting on with the job.”

 

Senior cabinet figures, including Finance Minister Rachel Reeves, have also urged party members to avoid destabilising the government, warning against plunging the country into “chaos” through an internal leadership battle.

 

Under Labour Party rules, a challenger would require the support of at least 20 per cent of Labour MPs to formally trigger a contest.