By Our Correspondent

National News – Pressure is mounting on Keir Starmer as senior members of the UK Labour Party position themselves for a possible leadership contest following growing criticism of his government.

The debate intensified after Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned, saying he had lost confidence in Starmer’s leadership.

The development has fuelled speculation over who could replace the British Prime Minister if a formal challenge emerges.

Streeting, 43, is regarded as one of Labour’s strongest communicators and a rising figure on the party’s right wing.

He gained prominence during the 2024 UK general election campaign and called for an open debate about Labour’s future direction.

Born into a working-class family in East London, Streeting studied at Cambridge University before becoming a Member of Parliament in 2015.

His resignation has intensified political uncertainty within the Labour Party.

Another possible contender is Angela Rayner, the former deputy prime minister known for her outspoken style and strong support among Labour’s left wing.

Rayner recently resolved a tax issue that contributed to her departure from government and hinted she could enter the race.

She rose from a modest background in northern England, became a trade union activist, and later entered Parliament in 2015.

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is also being discussed as a possible challenger.

Burnham, who previously served as health secretary under former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, has criticised Starmer’s policies and called for broader national reforms.

He plans to return to Parliament through a by-election. Despite mounting pressure, Starmer has insisted he will not step down.

However, Labour’s declining popularity, economic concerns, and the rise of Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party continue to increase tensions inside the ruling party.