Politics latest: Starmer ‘will fight any leadership coup’ as Streeting denies attempt to oust Labour PM

Published: 12 November 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

Downing Street has insisted that Sir Keir Starmer will resist any attempt at a leadership coup, as Health Secretary Wes Streeting strongly denied claims that he is plotting to unseat the Labour Prime Minister. The ongoing speculation comes amid a backdrop of heightened political tension in Westminster, with the government preparing for the crucial Budget announcement in two weeks’ time. Allies of the Prime Minister have moved quickly to quash rumours of internal dissent, insisting that Starmer’s leadership remains stable and that attempts to destabilise him would be firmly resisted.

The claims regarding a possible leadership challenge gained traction late last week, following a series of briefings from Number 10. Some political commentators suggested that Mr Streeting and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood might be positioning themselves to challenge Starmer’s authority within the party. However, speaking to Sky News, Mr Streeting categorically denied these allegations, describing them as “self-defeating and self-destructive” and comparing them to “conspiracy theories” that serve no purpose other than to sow discord.

He emphasised that the focus for all members of the Labour Party should be on delivering the promises that voters expect, rather than engaging in internal manoeuvring. “I do think that trying to kneecap one of your own team when they are out there, not just making the case for the government but actually delivering the change we promised, is both self-defeating and self-destructive,” he said. “This is the moment to demonstrate leadership, unity, and commitment to the electorate, not to indulge in baseless speculation.”

Downing Street sources have also weighed in, asserting that Starmer’s position is secure and that any suggestion of a leadership coup is premature and unfounded. One source noted, “The Prime Minister remains focused on implementing the government’s agenda. There are always rumours in politics, especially ahead of significant fiscal announcements, but the suggestion that Sir Keir’s position is under threat is simply not true.”

The speculation has reignited discussions about internal culture within the Labour Party, highlighting long-standing concerns over how the party manages disputes and dissent among senior members. Analysts have pointed out that while Labour has historically faced factional tensions, Starmer has sought to project an image of stability and collective purpose. Streeting’s remarks underline a growing recognition among party members that maintaining cohesion is critical, particularly as the government seeks to navigate economic pressures and deliver on promised reforms.

Political observers note that leadership speculation often intensifies during periods of uncertainty, such as ahead of major Budget announcements, as senior figures weigh the potential implications of policy decisions on public perception and party unity. In this context, Streeting’s public denial is both a tactical and strategic move, reinforcing his commitment to Starmer’s leadership while signalling to colleagues and voters that attempts to destabilise the party would be counterproductive.

Adding further context, the Prime Minister’s allies have stressed that Starmer’s track record in consolidating party support, combined with his focus on addressing key national issues such as the economy, healthcare, and public services, makes a leadership challenge unlikely at this stage. Sources within Number 10 have highlighted that the government is concentrating on delivering practical results rather than engaging in internal politicking, reflecting a broader determination to maintain public confidence and demonstrate competence.

The flurry of media attention surrounding the alleged coup underscores the heightened scrutiny faced by party leaders in the modern political landscape. Rumours, briefings, and leaks can quickly take on a life of their own, feeding narratives that may not accurately reflect the intentions or positions of senior politicians. By publicly addressing these claims, Streeting has sought to quell speculation, emphasising that leadership should be judged by action and performance, rather than gossip or unverified reports.

Meanwhile, Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, has also distanced herself from the rumours, stating that she remains focused on her ministerial responsibilities and that the notion of orchestrating a leadership challenge is entirely unfounded. Her comments reinforce the message that senior figures within the government are prioritising governance and delivery over internal manoeuvring.

As Westminster continues to prepare for the upcoming Budget, the political spotlight will remain firmly fixed on the government, with public and media scrutiny intensifying. Analysts suggest that the handling of this leadership speculation could serve as a test of discipline and communication within the Labour Party, demonstrating how effectively senior members can address internal rumours while remaining united in purpose.

Ultimately, the debate over leadership challenges reflects the dynamic and often volatile nature of politics, where perception, media narratives, and internal party culture intersect. For Starmer, the focus appears to remain on implementing policy, engaging with constituents, and maintaining party cohesion, while allies like Streeting work to ensure that internal disputes do not distract from the government’s broader objectives. As the political landscape evolves in the coming weeks, any suggestion of a leadership coup will likely be judged not only on its plausibility but also on the party’s ability to maintain unity and deliver on its promises to the electorate.