UK Health Minister Streeting resigns, says no confidence in Starmer

UK Health Minister Streeting resigns, says no confidence in Starmer

UK Health Minister Wes Streeting resigned on Thursday, May 14, in a move widely seen as a precursor to challenging Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the leadership of the Labour Party.

In a post on X, Streeting said he no longer has confidence in Starmer's leadership, arguing that the prime minister is not in a position to lead the party into the next general election. He called for a detailed discussion on the party's next steps, which he said could include the best possible candidates.

Under Labour Party rules, challenging the leader requires the support of 81 MPs. Streeting did not disclose whether he had secured that backing.

Starmer led Labour to power in the 2024 general election, ending the Conservative Party's long rule. However, questions about his leadership have arisen following the party's disastrous results in local and regional elections last week. Four junior ministers have already resigned, and over 80 Labour MPs have called on Starmer to step down.

Starmer has rejected calls for his resignation, claiming that more than 100 MPs have expressed support for him to remain in office.