Starmer under pressure, as Labour suffers heavy election losses

Labour suffered significant losses in local elections across England, Wales, and Scotland, marking a major setback for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. The party lost control of Welsh government after 27 years, with Plaid Cymru becoming the largest party in the devolved parliament. In England, Reform UK gained over 1,400 seats, surpassing Labour and the Conservatives in vote share, according to BBC projections, which placed Reform at 26%, Greens at 18%, and Labour and Conservatives tied at 17%. In Scotland, the SNP retained its position as the largest party but fell short of an overall majority, while Labour finished second with 17 seats, tied with Reform. The results have fueled criticism of Starmer’s leadership, with 22 Labour MPs publicly calling for him to resign or set a departure timeline. Despite this, cabinet allies like Health Secretary Wes Streeting have expressed support, urging unity and responsibility in addressing voter concerns. Starmer wrote in *The Guardian* that Labour must ‘bring together a broad political movement’ rather than shift right or left, while Louise Haigh, a former transport secretary, warned against an internal leadership contest but suggested Starmer’s future depends on his ability to deliver change. Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester mayor and a potential challenger, remains blocked from standing as an MP, leaving some MPs to wait for his return to Westminster before mounting a challenge. Labour lost over 1,100 council seats in England, including strongholds in the north and Midlands, with counting ongoing. Reform UK’s surge has reshaped the political landscape, signaling the decline of Labour and Conservative dominance. Starmer is expected to address the party’s response in a speech on Monday, though internal divisions and voter dissatisfaction continue to test his leadership.