UK PM Starmer May Quit on Monday Amid Leadership Speculation: Report

But a government source disputed the speculation, saying Starmer “remains focused on the job of governing”.

Pressure on Starmer has intensified in recent months, rising sharply after his Labor rival Andy Burnham won a seat in parliament on Friday, potentially allowing him to mount a formal leadership challenge, the report said.

Reuters, quoting ObserverStarmer reportedly discussed his future with his wife at Checkers country house before making a final decision. Senior figures from the Labor Party are reportedly expecting a possible statement from the Prime Minister as early as Monday.

The government source reiterated that Starmer remains committed to his duties, pointing to his previous public statements.

On Friday, Starmer said he would “fight against any challenge” to his leadership and urged Labor members not to damage the party through internal divisions.

Despite leading Labor to a landslide victory in the 2024 general election, Starmer reportedly faces growing opposition within the party following a series of controversies and policy setbacks that critics say have weakened public confidence in the government.

The report claims that more than 100 Labor MPs – around a quarter of the party’s parliamentary strength – have publicly called for him to either resign or provide a clear timetable for his departure.

Accordingly ObserverAfter consultations with cabinet colleagues, advisers, donors and union leaders, Starmer concluded that his position was becoming increasingly difficult.

Andy Burnham, meanwhile, is seen by many within the Labor Party as a leading candidate to replace Starmer, either through a negotiated transition process or a leadership race.

Burnham recently won a seat in parliament, defeating competition linked to Nigel Farage’s Reform UK movement.

Former health minister Wes Streeting has also emerged as a potential leadership challenger and has indicated a desire to challenge the party leadership.