British Prime Minister Keir Starmer vowed on Wednesday to continue governing despite growing calls within his party for him to step down following heavy Labour losses in recent local elections.
Around 90 Labour lawmakers have reportedly urged Starmer to resign, accusing him of failing to deliver meaningful reforms since the party’s landslide victory in the 2024 general election. Several junior ministers have also resigned in protest, increasing pressure on the embattled prime minister.
Despite the mounting criticism, no formal leadership challenge has yet been launched against Starmer.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting, widely viewed as a potential rival for the leadership, held a brief meeting with Starmer at Downing Street on Wednesday morning. British media had described the meeting as a possible showdown over the prime minister’s future.
However, Europe Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds said there was currently no clear candidate with enough backing to trigger a leadership contest.
“We now have to move on,” Thomas-Symonds told BBC Radio.
The political turmoil comes as Britain prepares for the State Opening of Parliament, a major constitutional ceremony led by King Charles III, during which the government outlines its legislative priorities for the coming year.
“Britain stands at a pivotal moment,” Starmer said in a statement. “To press ahead with a plan to build a stronger, fairer country or turn back to the chaos and instability of the past.”
He said the government would focus on lowering living costs, reducing hospital waiting times and protecting national security in what he described as an “increasingly dangerous world”.
According to the government, more than 35 bills and draft laws will be introduced, targeting economic growth, national security and reforms aimed at creating a more active state that supports ordinary citizens.
During the ceremony, King Charles will travel to parliament in full royal tradition and deliver a speech written by Starmer’s government, outlining its legislative agenda.
However, uncertainty remains over whether Starmer will remain in office long enough to implement those plans. If he is replaced, his successor would not be obligated to continue with the same programme.
After spending much of Tuesday meeting allies behind closed doors in Downing Street, Starmer’s leadership struggle is now expected to unfold publicly during Wednesday’s parliamentary events.
The prime minister will accompany lawmakers in a formal procession to the House of Lords, where the king will address parliament before Starmer later delivers a speech during a debate likely to attract criticism from political rivals.
Adding to the pressure, several labour unions closely linked to the Labour Party also called for Starmer’s resignation just hours before the ceremony began.
