Joe Morris statement in full after resigning as Wes Streeting ministerial aide

Sir Keir Starmer faces mounting pressure to resign following a dismal performance in local elections, with three Labor MPs stepping down and more than 50 Labor MPs joining him.

Among those resigning is Wes Streeting’s deputy minister, Joe Morris, widely considered a potential leadership candidate.

Mr Morris called on Sir Keir to set a “quick timetable” for his departure.

Joe Morris’ full statement

“The message of last week’s election was clear: the Prime Minister had lost public confidence.

“Local councilors who have served their communities for decades, first-time candidates and Labor members who campaigned on their behalf have ended up taking the blame for decisions that were not theirs.

“A reform government would destroy our public services and cripple our economy. It targets the voiceless and the most vulnerable while enriching the richest. Despite the Prime Minister’s best efforts, voters do not accept that he can lead the change they voted for.

“Whether in Northumberland or Newcastle, voters need a Labor government to reduce the cost of living, invest in our communities and infrastructure and deliver on the promises made at the general election.

“I have the utmost confidence in the Labor Party and our ability to get to this point, but unfortunately it is now clear that the Prime Minister does not have the trust and confidence to lead this change.

“It is in the interest of the country and the party for the Prime Minister to set a rapid timetable for the appointment of a new leader to regain public confidence and ensure that the government can deliver on its commitments.

“I was elected after 100 years of Tory MPs being complacent in our district. My first duty will always be to serve the communities in my constituency, from Gilsland to Walbottle and Kielder to Whittonstall. Only a strong Labor government, led by strong leadership, can deliver the change our communities deserve.”