British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will not set out any timetable for leaving office, his deputy David Lammy said on Monday. The statement comes amid rising pressure within the Labour Party following poor local election results. The situation matters as internal instability has raised political uncertainty and affected investor confidence in the United Kingdom.
Lammy confirmed that Starmer remains firm and has no plans to step down on a fixed schedule. He said he had spoken to the prime minister twice on Sunday regarding the political situation. Meanwhile, nearly a quarter of Labour lawmakers have reportedly called for Starmer to resign after recent electoral losses.
Read more: UK health secretary resigns, expected to challenge Starmer’s
The pressure follows heavy setbacks for Labour in elections held on May 7. The results have triggered internal debate and leadership speculation within the party. Two potential challengers have already emerged as possible replacements, adding to political uncertainty in Westminster.
Lawmaker Wes Streeting, who recently resigned as health minister, has said he would enter any formal leadership contest. In addition, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is reportedly seeking a parliamentary seat to position himself for a possible challenge. Starmer has repeatedly stated that he intends to resist any leadership bid against him.
Read more: Labour Election Defeat Sparks Pressure on Starmer to Resign
Under Labour Party rules, a leadership contest would require nominations from at least 81 lawmakers. This threshold represents 20 percent of Labour members of parliament. Analysts say any formal challenge could deepen divisions within the party at a sensitive political moment.