Calls for Starmer’s Resignation Grow

A significant number of Britons are urging Prime Minister Keir Starmer to step down following a dismal election result. Although he has pledged to avoid Westminster events, it seems he might be trying to facilitate his own resignation.

Labor MPs have been increasingly vocal about their desire for Starmer to resign, particularly after his Reset speech this morning, which did not sit well with many. The count of those plotting against him has now ballooned to 69, nearing the 81 required to invoke a leadership challenge.

What’s especially striking is that some junior government members are joining in with the dissenters, not just backbenchers. Today, notable resignations include:

• Naushaba Khan, Cabinet Office PPS
• Tom Rutland, PPS, Department for Food, Environment and Rural Affairs
• Joe Morris, Department of Health and Human Services PPS

A Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) is appointed by a minister to act as an assistant. Though it’s an unpaid role, it’s often seen as a stepping stone in political life.

The resignation of Joe Morris, who is close to leadership challenger Wes Street, is particularly significant, as he’s viewed as an unofficial representative for his superior. As the evening unfolds, expectations are continuing to rise.

A recent YouGov snap poll, which surveyed around 5,000 adults, indicates that the public is largely in favor of seeing Starmer resign. When asked if he should remain as leader of the Labor Party and prime minister, 50% answered that he should resign and be succeeded by a new leader.

Only 29% of respondents wanted him to stay, while the rest were undecided. Even among Labor voters—his strongest support base—only 45% believe he should continue in his role.

This poll follows a calamitous election for Sir Keir’s party, which experienced its worst performance in a century, losing even the solidly red districts it previously dominated since World War I. Despite the clear signals from voters and the understanding that his tenure was meant to mitigate an anticipated defeat, the Prime Minister remains steadfast in his position.

Starmer recently mentioned that he does not intend to hold onto power for much longer and has aspirations for a “historic 10-year reign.” Yet, today, his leadership is being portrayed as the best option to prevent “chaos.”

However, with Labor seemingly on the brink of outright rebellion, it’s becoming increasingly obvious that many of his party associates do not share his perspective. Numerous Labor MPs have publicly called for his resignation, and a small contingent of junior government members have already stepped down.