London politics LIVE: Starmer to make 'last chance' speech as Wes Streeting 'eyes leadership bid'

Keir Starmer will attempt to salvage his leadership on Monday with a speech aimed at reassuring Labour MPs following the party’s disastrous election results. The Prime Minister will outline sweeping changes to tackle the UK’s challenges, including a King’s Speech on Wednesday detailing new legislative priorities. Labour MPs have been urged to support a leadership challenge if Starmer fails to convince them he can reverse the party’s decline, with Nigel Farage’s Reform UK and Zack Polanski’s Green Party gaining ground in votes and seats. Hornsey and Friern Barnet MP Catherine West is deciding whether to seek the 81 nominations needed to trigger a leadership contest, depending on her satisfaction with Starmer’s speech. Left-wing factions suspect her move could precipitate an early contest, potentially benefiting Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who remains an MP while rival Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, is not. Allies of Streeting have reportedly stated he is preparing for a challenge if the situation deteriorates, though no immediate bid is planned. The speech marks a critical juncture for Starmer’s premiership, with internal party dynamics shifting amid voter dissatisfaction. Labour’s collapse in the polls has intensified pressure on the leadership, raising questions about the party’s direction. The coming days will determine whether Starmer can retain control or if a leadership race becomes unavoidable.