Housing secretary Steve Reed, a close ally of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has urged Labour colleagues to put the “country first, party second” as he acknowledged the prime minister’s unpopularity. Speaking on the media round this morning, Reed addressed questions about whether replacing Starmer should be considered, noting that each of the last four prime ministers has been the most unpopular ever.
Reed Calls for Unity
Reed emphasized the need for the party to unite behind Starmer and focus on delivering the change the British public wants. He dismissed the idea of a leadership challenge, stating bluntly that “there is no leadership challenge” and criticizing the “internal-facing nonsense” plaguing the party.
Leadership Speculation Persists
Despite Reed’s remarks, speculation about a potential challenge continues, with Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham reportedly considering a bid. Reed told the BBC that if anyone wanted to gather nominations, they could, but no one has done so. He urged the party to take a breath, reflect over the weekend, and return next week focused on serving the country.
Commenting on reports that Starmer was considering his position last night, Reed told Times Radio “that isn’t true,” adding that Labour will not copy the chaos seen under the Conservatives.
Labour MP Josh Simons announced yesterday he would stand down from his Makerfield constituency to allow Burnham to stand in a byelection. Simons expressed belief that Burnham could drive the change the country needs, stating that the party has lost the trust of those it was built to serve and requires urgent, radical, courageous reform.
