News Editor
What happened
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is under increasing pressure to resign after more than 70 Labour MPs publicly demanded his departure following disappointing local election results. On May 11, 2026, Labour lost almost 1,500 English councillors, prompting significant concern within the party about its future direction. Despite Starmer’s efforts to reassure party members with a speech outlining his commitment to lead and address the party’s challenges, many remain unconvinced. Senior cabinet ministers have also suggested he should establish a timetable for his resignation, indicating a notable shift in support among Labour leadership. This situation has sparked discussions about potential leadership changes, with figures like Andy Burnham emerging as possible contenders.
Key figures
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is under increasing pressure to resign, with more than 70 Labour MPs publicly calling for his departure following the party’s disappointing performance in recent local elections. Labour lost nearly 1,500 English councillors, a significant setback that has fueled discontent within the party. A Survation poll indicates that 55% of the British public believe Starmer should step down.
In light of these events, discussions among senior cabinet ministers have emerged regarding a possible orderly transition of power. Prominent figures like Catherine West and Andy Burnham have expressed their concerns, highlighting a notable shift in support for Starmer’s leadership as the party navigates these challenges.
Numbers and reactions
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is under increased pressure to resign, with more than 70 Labour MPs publicly demanding his departure following the party’s poor performance in the recent local elections, where Labour lost almost 1,500 English councillors. Despite Starmer’s efforts to reassure party members in a speech outlining his future plans, many remain unconvinced. Labour MP Catherine West expressed concern, stating that Starmer’s speech was “too little too late,” while Kemi Badenoch remarked on the need for a reset in leadership. A Survation poll revealed that 55% of the British public believe Starmer should step down, indicating growing discontent both within the party and among the electorate.
Oliver Hastings is a Business & Finance Reporter at UK News, where he focuses on delivering insightful coverage of the business landscape in the UK. With a keen eye for detail, Oliver specializes in areas such as finance, market trends, stock analysis, and economic indicators, including GDP and inflation metrics. His commitment to providing accurate and timely information helps readers navigate the complexities of the business world.Before joining UK News, Oliver gained valuable experience working for several prominent financial publications, where he developed a strong understanding of corporate finance and market dynamics. He has a solid background in bringing clarity to intricate financial stories, ensuring that the implications for consumers and investors are effectively communicated.Oliver holds a degree in Economics from the University of Manchester, where he honed his analytical skills and deepened his understanding of economic principles. His academic background equips him with the tools necessary to dissect complex financial issues and present them in an accessible manner.Residing in London, Oliver enjoys exploring the city’s diverse culinary scene and attending live music events. He believes that journalism plays a vital role in society, stating, 'The best journalism not only informs but also engages the audience, prompting them to think critically about the world around them.'