Internal Tensions and Leadership Speculation within the Government
Anonymous briefings have surfaced, claiming that Keir Starmer would resist any attempt to remove him and suggesting that cabinet ministers, including Health Secretary Wes Streeting, were plotting leadership challenges. Starmer asserted his loyalty to the prime minister, who in turn condemned attacks on ministers as unacceptable. Questions remain about whether the prime minister authorised the briefings and if a leak inquiry will follow. Morgan McSweeney, No 10 chief of staff, has become a focal point of criticism; some insist he should take responsibility, while others claim no one in No 10 was behind the briefings. Wes Streeting was the subject of pre-arranged interviews during which he denied planning a leadership challenge and described Downing Street as toxic and sexist. Colleagues noted Streeting's nimble communication skills. The prime minister and Streeting later spoke by phone to mend relations, with Starmer also issuing an apology. They planned further discussions, and McSweeney declined to comment on the situation. This episode highlights the government's unpopularity and the political pressure surrounding leadership, with the volume and emphasis of the briefings exceeding expectations.
