STARMER ALLIES DISMISS COUP RUMOURS – Wes Streeting denies leadership bid amid Labour tensions
Health Secretary Wes Streeting has found himself at the centre of speculation that he was preparing to mount a leadership bid — claims he’s firmly rejected. Speaking in an interview, Streeting joked, “Yes, I rule it out — and no, I didn’t shoot JFK or fake the moon landings.”
His comments came after a series of late-night briefings from Downing Street, as Starmer’s allies scrambled to project unity amid reports that as many as 50 Labour frontbenchers could resign if the upcoming November 26 Budget goes down badly.
Insiders say unease has been growing within the party over rising taxes and falling poll numbers — with some MPs questioning Starmer’s leadership just 18 months into government.
Number 10 has warned that any attempt to remove the Prime Minister could trigger “market chaos” and damage Britain’s global standing.
ITV’s Robert Peston reports that former Treasury Minister Kitty Ussher told Labour advisers investors were already nervous, and that removing Starmer or Chancellor Rachel Reeves could send borrowing costs “through the roof.”
The Prime Minister faces tough questions at PMQs this week as he tries to stamp out talk of rebellion and refocus his party on governing.
For now, both Starmer’s office and the Health Secretary insist that there is no leadership challenge. But with the Budget looming, Labour’s internal unity is being tested like never before.
