PM Condemns Leaks, Vows Loyalty to Ministers and Stability

Published: 13 November 2025 | The English Chronicle Desk | The English Chronicle Online

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has strongly denied authorising any attacks on his cabinet ministers, describing recent anonymous briefings against them as “unacceptable” and insisting his focus remains on delivering for the country. Speaking at Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), Sir Keir sought to quash speculation regarding his awareness of the leaks, which were aimed at shoring up his position amid rumours of a potential leadership challenge.

The controversy arose after media outlets reported anonymous briefings suggesting that certain ministers, including Health Secretary Wes Streeting, might be considering bids for the party leadership. Streeting has publicly denied any ambition to challenge the prime minister and called for those responsible for the briefings to be held accountable. At an NHS conference in Manchester, Streeting reaffirmed his loyalty, stating that he would stand by Sir Keir in the event of any leadership plots.

The issue has shone a spotlight on the “toxic culture” within No 10, with critics arguing that the environment of internal leaks and anonymous commentary undermines trust in the government. Streeting, however, made clear he does not believe the prime minister is behind the briefings, and he emphasised the importance of not contributing to the toxicity by naming individuals. Sir Keir, meanwhile, defended his team, particularly his chief of staff Morgan McSweeney, asserting that he has full confidence in them and that any attacks on cabinet members are completely unacceptable.

Opposition leader Kemi Badenoch seized the moment during PMQs to claim that Sir Keir has “lost control” of his government and the trust of the British people, directly questioning whether McSweeney retained the prime minister’s confidence. Sir Keir responded by highlighting his focus on governmental priorities and praising ministers like Streeting for their work in reducing NHS waiting lists and boosting staffing levels.

The briefings have sparked debate among Labour MPs and supporters of the prime minister, particularly ahead of key political events such as the upcoming Budget on 26 November, as well as elections in Scotland, Wales, and local elections in England next year. Some allies argue that a leadership contest at this time would risk plunging the party into the chaos reminiscent of the final years of the previous Conservative administration.

To trigger a leadership challenge, potential candidates would need the backing of 20% of Labour MPs, currently amounting to 81 nominations. While some MPs have publicly condemned the briefings as misguided and disruptive, others have described the handling of the situation as “baffling” and “badly timed,” questioning why internal speculation was legitimised.

The unfolding situation highlights the delicate balance Sir Keir must maintain between managing his cabinet, controlling narratives within No 10, and reassuring the public and his party that he remains focused on the government’s agenda. Supporters argue that maintaining party stability is crucial for economic confidence, international relations, and the government’s broader policy goals, underscoring the high stakes surrounding the internal political manoeuvring.