UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has denied authorising any attacks or briefings against his cabinet ministers, describing the reports as “unacceptable.”
Speaking during Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) on Wednesday, Starmer addressed growing speculation over alleged anonymous briefings suggesting internal divisions within his government. The briefings reportedly claimed that Starmer could face a leadership challenge from Health Secretary Wes Streeting.
Starmer’s statement came after some of his allies told the media that efforts were underway to defend his leadership ahead of a possible challenge following the Budget on 26 November.
Streeting, however, dismissed reports of any leadership ambition, describing the claims as “juvenile” and “untrue.” He criticised what he called a “toxic culture” inside No 10 but clarified that he did not believe the prime minister was behind the briefings.
Asked at an NHS conference in Manchester if he would stand by Starmer against any attempt to unseat him, Streeting replied, “Yes.” He added that those responsible for the briefings should be sacked.
At PMQs, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accused the prime minister of losing control of his government and the trust of the British people. She also questioned whether Starmer still had confidence in his chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, who has been linked to the alleged internal tensions.
Responding, Starmer said: “Morgan McSweeney, my team and I are absolutely focused on delivering for the country. Let me be clear — I’ve never authorised attacks on cabinet members. I appointed them because they’re the best people for their jobs.”
He added that “any attack on any member of my cabinet is completely unacceptable,” while praising Streeting for his efforts to reduce NHS waiting lists and increase the number of doctors.
Following PMQs, a spokesperson for the prime minister said the briefings against Streeting originated from “outside No 10,” insisting Starmer retained full confidence in McSweeney.
Despite leading Labour to a landslide victory in July 2024, Starmer has faced challenges within his party amid slipping opinion polls. Some Labour MPs, including senior ministers, have criticised the anonymous briefings as “damaging” and “poorly handled.”
To trigger a leadership contest, at least 20% of Labour MPs (81 nominations) would be required. Potential names mentioned by MPs include Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and Energy Secretary Ed Miliband.
Labour MP Jo White condemned the internal briefings, saying, “This is a group of people who think they’re much cleverer than the rest of us, who spend their time selectively briefing journalists and stirring the pot. We’re not having it.”
Political observers say the coming Budget and next year’s local elections in England, Scotland, and Wales could determine whether Starmer consolidates his leadership or faces renewed internal dissent.
