The Labour Party is on the cusp of a seismic shift as Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces mounting pressure to announce his resignation. Despite previous denials and reassurances from allies, it appears increasingly likely that Mr Starmer will step down amidst a wave of discontent among Labour MPs following the surprise by-election victory of Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.
Mr Burnham's resounding win in Makerfield has sent shockwaves through Westminster, with many in the party now convinced that he is the leader best placed to challenge the Conservatives in the next general election. Sources suggest that over 200 Labour MPs are prepared to nominate Mr Burnham for the leadership, a staggering figure that suggests his ascension is becoming increasingly inevitable.
The tide of opinion within the party has shifted dramatically in recent days, with even senior Cabinet ministers urging Mr Starmer to facilitate an orderly transition. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander are among those who have reportedly called on the Prime Minister to step aside gracefully.
The anticipated resignation comes at a time when Mr Starmer's popularity has plummeted, with some describing him as the 'most unpopular prime minister in recent memory'. His departure would mark a significant moment for the Labour Party and the wider political landscape, ushering in a new era of leadership ahead of the next national election.