Labour has not learned lessons from Tories on changing leader, Peter Kyle says

Labour’s Cabinet minister Peter Kyle argued the party has failed to learn from the Conservatives’ tendency to replace leaders when facing challenges. Speaking at a Westminster press gallery lunch on Thursday, he said the Tories repeatedly changed leadership instead of addressing policy failures, calling it a flawed approach. Kyle expressed frustration that Labour colleagues often blame one person rather than taking collective responsibility for government struggles. He criticized the political culture for rewarding self-promotion over stability, noting media focus on individuals pushing forward during instability rather than those delivering results. ‘Entitlement is not a qualification for leadership,’ Kyle said, warning the party risks repeating cycles of change if it does not define better leadership standards. With Keir Starmer’s position under pressure after Labour’s losses in local and devolved elections, Kyle acknowledged the need for bold policy delivery but rejected Trump-style tactics. He argued Labour must show voters it can tackle challenges effectively, even if it means faster, progressive reforms. ‘People didn’t feel the big things we did,’ he said, emphasizing the need to demonstrate tangible benefits. Kyle also distanced himself from Wes Streeting, a potential leadership rival and close friend, stating political loyalty should not override national interest. He joked about staying in his role for ‘at least 100 years’ while warning against adding another prime minister to the six who have held the position in the last decade.