Sir Keir Starmer is reportedly set to face a leadership challenge as early as Thursday from Wes Streeting, despite stating he retained “full confidence” in the health secretary.
After the King’s Speech, the prime minister and loyal cabinet ministers spent the evening meeting with Labour MPs in the hope of securing support, warning colleagues “not to plunge the party into chaos”.
It comes as Sir Keir cracked jokes about Labour’s leadership turmoil during Wednesday’s debate. He responded to the gracious address from Kemi Badenoch, who declared that “the starting gun of the Labour leadership contest has been fired” to jeers from the prime minister’s alleged rival.
The health secretary could be seen laughing along to jokes made by the prime minister, despite reports he is rallying support for his own campaign.
Meanwhile. Afzal Khan, the Labour MP for Manchester Rusholme, has denied plans to step down to let Andy Burnham return to Westminster and challenge Sir Keir.
Reports circulated that Mr Khan was considering stepping aside for the Greater Manchester mayor should Mr Streeting launch a leadership bid. During an interview with Sky News, he later said the speculation was a “false rumour”.
Key Points
- Streeting 'preparing to resign and trigger leadership contest tomorrow'
- Analysis: Could Starmer end up sacking Wes Streeting?
- Analysis: Streeting sets out his stall ahead of possible leadership challenge
- Government to introduce Bill to strengthen EU ties
- King begins speech with warning of ‘dangerous and volatile world’
- PM still has ‘full confidence’ in Streeting
- Starmer warns leadership battle would 'paralyse the Government for months'
Reform MP says Starmer is the 'most unpopular' prime minister ever
01:00 , Rebecca WhittakerKeir Starmer has been called the “most unpopular” prime minister ever in Britain, by deputy leader of Reform UK Richard Tice.
The MP for Boston and Skegness said in the commons that he doesn’t think the current programme of government will reduce the cost of living or boost jobs.
Recap: MP becomes first to call for Starmer to step down in Commons
00:00 , Rebecca WhittakerJonathan Brash has become the first Labour MP to call for Sir Keir Starmer to step down as Prime Minister on the floor of the House of Commons.
The Hartlepool MP said: “The message last week was unmistakable. People want a government that acts with urgency, courage and purpose against the crushing pressures of everyday life.
“And if they do not get it, they will once again roll the dice, and even if it is on a charlatan, because desperation drives risk, and people are desperate for hope.
“And for however difficult it may be for many on these benches to admit, it is now clear to me that this Prime Minister can no longer provide that hope.
“I do not say it with pleasure, but leadership is not only about knowing when to fight on, it is also about knowing when your authority has ebbed, when trust has frayed, and when it is time to leave the stage.”
Mr Brash was the first MP to call for Sir Keir resign, after his wife lost her seat in the local elections.
He also used his speech to call for “bolder” policies, including abolishing council tax and replacing it with a more progressive system, nationalising water companies and Royal Mail, “standing up for” the Waspi women, and, if necessary, “declaring a state of emergency on our borders and turning boats back”.
King’s Speech 2026: Key points from Charles’s address amid Starmer leadership crisis
23:00 , Rebecca WhittakerKing Charles III today delivered his third King’s Speech as monarch, marking the 2026 state opening of parliament.
The speech marks the beginning of a new parliamentary session, and is both historically symbolic and an important moment where the government’s legislative plans for the year ahead are set out.
Here, The Independent gives an overview of some of the key policies announced. Read more here:
King’s Speech 2026: Key points from Charles’ address amid Starmer leadership crisis
Manchester MP denies rumour he will give up seat for Burnham
22:53 , Holly EvansAfzal Khan, the MP for Manchester Rusholme, has told Sky News he has not got plans to give up his seat for Andy Burnham.
Mr Khan yesterday told Sky News the speculation around his seat was a "fake rumour".
Reports have continued to emerge this evening that he would be willing to stand down if Wes Streeting mounted a leadership challenge.
He repeated this evening: "I am not giving [up] my seat.”
Watch: King Charles warns of 'dangerous and volatile world'
22:45 , Rebecca WhittakerJeremy Corbyn 'fails to see' Wes Streeting as a good alternative for the Labour party
22:15 , Rebecca WhittakerYour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn said it is “very hard to see” how Sir Keir Starmer can stay in post but he does not think Health Secretary Wes Streeting is an alternative.
The former Labour Party leader found the King’s Speech promised “very little” and “even where there’s something moderately optimistic, like better control of the water industry, it falls short of taking it into public ownership”.
The MP for Islington North said: “When (the King’s Speech) talks about improving the lot of young children, particularly special needs children in schools, it doesn’t say anything about how they’re going to fund it or pay for it… on the global stage it’s a continuation of arms spending, continuation of enabling American planes to fly out of Britain to bomb Iran and no reference or apology for their participation in the Gaza genocide.”
He added: “If Wes Streeting is to be the alternative, I fail to see what he’s an alternative to.
“Wes Streeting is, after all, presiding over Palantir being brought into our National Health Service and has continued with the Health and Social Care Act that the coalition government brought in, which brings in the private sector into our NHS.”
Starmer vows ‘to fight to win’ against Streeting for Labour leadership with health secretary poised to quit government
21:45 , Rebecca WhittakerAnother day of fevered speculation in parliament saw allies of Wes Streeting claim he is set to resign from the as health secretary and trigger a leadership election with rivals including energy secretary Ed Miliband also expected to enter the contest, writes political editor David Maddox.
Read more here:
Starmer vows ‘to fight to win’ against Streeting for Labour leadership
Another MP ends speculation and denies preparing to stand down for Andy Burnham
21:24 , Rebecca WhittakerAnother Manchester Labour MP has denied preparing to stand down to allow Andy Burnham to attempt to return to Parliament.
Asked whether he was about to make way for the Greater Manchester Mayor, Manchester Withington MP Jeff Smith said he was not.
It comes after MP Afzal Khan denied speculation he was preparing to quit Parliament to create a vacancy for Andy Burnham to return to Westminster.
Asked whether he was planning to stand down for Mr Burnham, the Manchester Rusholme MP he said: “I am not.”
Green MP criticised the King’s speech
21:15 , Rebecca WhittakerGreen Party MP Hannah Spencer, representing Gorton and Denton, has criticised the King’s speech.
She said there was “not enough” in the speech to improve the lives of underrepresented communities in Parliament and said the government should “go bigger” on renewable energy.
Labour MP Afzal Khan confirms he is 'not' stepping down for Andy Burnham
21:11 , Rebecca WhittakerLabour MP Afzal Khan has denied speculation he was preparing to quit Parliament to create a vacancy for Andy Burnham to return to Westminster.
Asked whether he was planning to stand down for Mr Burnham, the Manchester Rusholme MP he said: “I am not.”
Earlier today The Mirror reported he said: “At the last General Election, the people of Manchester Rusholme put their trust in me to represent them to Parliament, and that is the job I am focused on doing.”
Mr Burnham was being touted as a leading contender to replace Sir Keir Starmer if he resigns as Prime Minister.
He has previously indicated he would be willing to overthrow the current Labour leader.
But as the current mayor of Manchester without a seat in Parliament, Mr Burnham faces a potentially arduous route to the top.
Starmer biographer warns Labour risks ‘real chance’ of changing leaders again before election if it ousts him now
20:45 , Rebecca WhittakerSir Keir Starmer’s biographer has warned there is a “real chance” Labour will have to change leaders again before the next general election if it ousts him from No 10 now.
Tom Baldwin said he was “astonished” the party was “behaving like this” after Labour civil war erupted amid a chorus of calls for the prime minister to resign following the party’s disastrous local election results last week.
As allies of health secretary Wes Streeting say they expect him to resign on Thursday to trigger a leadership challenge, Mr Baldwin called on Labour not to repeat the Conservatives’ “bad habit” of changing prime ministers.
Read more here:
Starmer biographer warns Labour risks two leadership elections
Watch: Politics isn’t about the public anymore - it’s about the Westminster village, says former Labour insider
20:30 , Rebecca WhittakerStarmer to navigate closer relations with EU 'carefully'
20:15 , Becky WhittakerSir Keir Starmer said he will navigate closer relations with the European Union “carefully”.
Responding to an intervention from TUV MP Jim Allister (North Antrim), the prime minister said: “I’m very well aware of the tensions in Northern Ireland, the issues that have to be dealt with in relation to relations with the EU.
“We have to face the fact that promises were made about Brexit, which were not true, which haven’t borne fruit.
“It is in our economic interests, our national interest, and defence interests, to be closer to Europe. Of course, we will navigate carefully, taking on board the issues in Northern Ireland, as he would expect, but it is in our interest to be closer to the EU.”
Sir Keir was also pressed by Conservative MP Lincoln Jopp (Spelthorne) on when the defence investment plan will be published, to which he said it “is being finalised and will be published soon”.
Recap: PM jokes about Labour turmoil in Commons
20:00 , Rebecca WhittakerSir Keir Starmer appeared to take a light-hearted approach to the ongoing turmoil surrounding his premiership as he laughed off plots to overthrow him.
The Prime Minister has so far managed to cling to power, despite a significant number of his own backbenchers demanding he stand down and four ministers resigning.
In the Commons on Wednesday, he appeared to joke about a letter – written by Labour former minister Catherine West and signed by 80 MPs – which called for him to go.
Sir Keir had praised Labour MP for Bradford West Naz Shah’s new book, before adding: “Her list of endorsements is truly impressive, reaching well over 100 members.
“At last, a list that we could all get behind.”
Another statement urging the Labour Party to come together behind the Prime Minister was signed by more than 100 MPs.
Watch: Starmer cracks joke about Labour turmoil in Commons speech
19:45 , Rebecca WhittakerMP says he won't stand down to let Andy Burnham run
19:30 , Rebecca WhittakerLabour MP Afzal Khan has suggested he will not stand down to allow Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to run.
The Mirror reported he said: “At the last General Election, the people of Manchester Rusholme put their trust in me to represent them to Parliament, and that is the job I am focused on doing.”
Mr Burnham is being touted as a leading contender to replace Sir Keir Starmer if he resigns as Prime Minister.
He has previously indicated he would be willing to overthrow the current Labour leader.
But as the current mayor of Manchester without a seat in Parliament, Mr Burnham faces a potentially arduous route to the top.
Labour MP Afzal Khan on reports he will stand down to allow Andy Burnham to run: “At the last General Election, the people of Manchester Rusholme put their trust in me to represent them to Parliament, and that is the job I am focused on doing.”
— Ashley Cowburn (@ashcowburn) May 13, 2026
Wes Streeting poised to resign to force leadership election against Starmer
19:30 , Rebecca WhittakerWes Streeting is poised to resign as health secretary to force a leadership election against Sir Keir Starmer as the crisis within the Labour Party deepens.
The Independent first revealed on Monday that Mr Streeting was expected to launch a leadership bid as his supporters led the way in declaring no confidence in the prime minister.
A defiant Sir Keir has told his remaining supporters he will fight any challenge, but it is now understood that as many as five other ministers, all allies of Mr Streeting, are on a resignation watchlist to deliver a further blow to their embattled leader, joining the four who quit on Tuesday.
Read more here by Political Editor David Maddox:
Wes Streeting poised to resign to force leadership election against Starmer
Recap: Who could replace Wes Streeting as health secretary if he resigns?
19:15 , Rebecca WhittakerThe Independent’s health correspondent Rebecca Thomas reports:
If the health secretary Wes Streeting does resign to trigger a leadership race, the junior ministers who could step in include Stephen Kinnock, Karen Smith, Baroness Merron, and Sharon Hodgson.
Preet Gill was appointed yesterday after Zubir Ahmed stepped down.If Mr Streeting does find a way to the PM spot, he may want to ensure stability for the health brief upon which Labour has set its biggest promises.
The most prominent members of the current ministerial group, the two with the meatiest briefs, are Stephen Kinnock, MP for Aberafan Maesteg, and Karen Smyth, MP for Bristol South.
Mr Kinnock is the department’s minister for social care, primary care, community care, dementia, and end-of-life care.
While Ms Smyth is minister for NHS secondary care, workforce, capital, land and estates, NHS finance, urgent and emergency care, and health and social care integration.
Baroness Merron is most recognisably responsible for maternity care, but also covers women’s health, gender, mental health, and the Covid-19 inquiry.Sharon Hodgson is responsible for several areas, including children’s health, inequalities, men’s health, and sexual health.
MP calls for Starmer to step down in Commons
19:13 , Rebecca WhittakerJonathan Brash has become the first Labour MP to call for Sir Keir Starmer to step down as Prime Minister on the floor of the House of Commons.
The Hartlepool MP said: “The message last week was unmistakable. People want a government that acts with urgency, courage and purpose against the crushing pressures of everyday life.
“And if they do not get it, they will once again roll the dice, and even if it is on a charlatan, because desperation drives risk, and people are desperate for hope.
“And for however difficult it may be for many on these benches to admit, it is now clear to me that this Prime Minister can no longer provide that hope.
“I do not say it with pleasure, but leadership is not only about knowing when to fight on, it is also about knowing when your authority has ebbed, when trust has frayed, and when it is time to leave the stage.”
Mr Brash was the first MP to call for Sir Keir resign, after his wife lost her seat in the local elections.
He also used his speech to call for “bolder” policies, including abolishing council tax and replacing it with a more progressive system, nationalising water companies and Royal Mail, “standing up for” the Waspi women, and, if necessary, “declaring a state of emergency on our borders and turning boats back”.
Why ‘Gawky’ Angela Rayner and not ‘Geeky’ Ed Miliband should be the left’s ‘Stop Wes’ candidate
19:00 , Rebecca WhittakerThe mischievous former deputy leader has an authenticity and charm that would appeal to the electorate - unlike the uncharismatic energy secretary, says Simon Walters.
Read more here:
Rayner and not Miliband should be the left’s ‘Stop Wes’ candidate
Rachel Reeves is reportedly trying to reduce support for Wes Streeting
18:54 , Rebecca WhittakerChancellor Rachel Reeves is meeting with Labour MPs to try and reduce the support for Wes Streeting, according to the BBC.
It comes as Wes Streeting reportedly told allies that he is preparing to resign and trigger a leadership contest as soon as tomorrow, after his brief meeting in Downing Street with Sir Keir Starmer.
Watch: Starmer can reassert his authority by sacking Wes Streeting
18:45 , Rebecca WhittakerWes Streeting would lose leadership contest to a left-wing candidate, MPs say
18:35 , Rebecca WhittakerModerate Labour MPs are warning Wes Streeting not to start a leadership contest because he will lose to a left-wing candidate.
Speaking to The Times, Luke Akehurst, MP for North Durham said: “Wes is a huge talent” but “I would urge him not to throw the party into further chaos by resigning”.
“The risk of initiating this process is the outcome isn’t Wes Streeting becoming PM,” he said.
Phil Brickell, MP for Bolton West, added: “Wes can’t win the membership”
EXCLUSIVE Politics isn’t about the public anymore — it’s about the Westminster village, says former Labour insider
18:30 , Rebecca WhittakerSir Keir Starmer’s biographer has criticised Labour’s internal turmoil, saying he is “astonished that a party’s behaving like this” amid growing questions over the leadership.
Speaking to The Independent following the state opening of Parliament on Wednesday (13 May), Tom Baldwin said it was “hard to claim those responsible are acting in the national interest.”
His comments come amid reports that Health Secretary Wes Streeting is preparing to resign following talks with the prime minister.
“One of the reasons why we've got this polarisation and this populism in the country is because people feel politics isn't about them. It’s about the Westminster village. It's about the game being played there.”
Watch here:
Westminster village ‘playing game’, says former Labour insider
Reform UK leader facing investigation over undeclared £5million gift
18:15 , Rebecca WhittakerNigel Farage is facing an investigation by a commons watchdog over a £5million gift from a party donor.
The Reform UK leader has been referred to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards. It has been suggested he did not declare the gift from Thailand-based cryptocurrency investor, Christopher Harborne.
However, Mr Farage insists the gift was not connected to his political activity and was gifted before he became an MP.
FTSE 100 rallies as prime minister keeps his grip on power
18:00 , Rebecca WhittakerThe FTSE 100 rallied on Wednesday, led by mining stocks, while gilts steadied as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer kept a precarious grip on power.
The FTSE 100 closed up 60.03 points, 0.6%, at 10,325.35. The FTSE 250 ended up 62.17 points, 0.3%, at 22,528.37, and the AIM All-Share rose 6.55 points, 0.8%, at 817.21.
In London, reports suggested Health Secretary Wes Streeting plans to step down and could mount a formal challenge to Sir Keir on Thursday.
Mr Streeting confronted his party leader over the crisis engulfing Labour as the pair met for crunch talks – which lasted less than 20 minutes – in Downing Street ahead of the King’s Speech.
According to various reports, Mr Streeting has told allies he is preparing to quit government on Thursday and run for the top job.
The pound nudged up to 1.3520 US dollars on Wednesday afternoon from 1.3505 dollars on Tuesday.
Against the euro, sterling was higher at 1.1542 euros from 1.1517 euros on Tuesday.
The yield on UK 10-year gilts traded at 5.07%, cooling from 5.10% the day before.
Kathleen Brooks, research director at XTB, said markets “remain sensitive to all news out of Westminster, and it is hard to see how the Prime Minister can stop another coup against him”.
Starmer warns leadership battle would 'paralyse the Government for months'
17:47 , Rebecca WhittakerSir Keir Starmer has been meeting ministers and Labour MPs in Parliament as he seeks to avert a potential leadership challenge, it is understood.
Cabinet ministers loyal to the Prime Minister have also been working the members’ tea room urging colleagues not to “plunge the party into chaos” and warning that a leadership contest would paralyse the Government for months.
'Streeting wouldn't move against Starmer without Mandelson’s say so', MP says
17:44 , Rebecca WhittakerLabour MP for Hayes & Harlington John McDonnell has said Wes Streeting “wouldn’t make a move against Keir Starmer without Mandelson’s say so”, in a post on X.
It comes as Wes Streeting reportedly told allies that he is preparing to resign and trigger a leadership contest as soon as tomorrow, after his brief meeting in Downing Street with Sir Keir Starmer.
Just a thought. Wes Streeting owes his political status to the support he’s received over years from Peter Mandelson & Morgan McSweeney at Labour Together. He wouldn’t make a move against Keir Starmer without Mandelson’s say so. So look on this as Mandelson’s & Morgan’s revenge.
— John McDonnell (@johnmcdonnellMP) May 13, 2026
PM says he will fight Streeting in leadership contest
17:35 , Rebecca WhittakerThe prime minister has told allies that he will fight Wes Streeting if he launches a leadership contest.
The Times has reported that Keir Starmer told Ministers and Labour MPs this afternoon that a leadership contest would leave the Government paralysed for months and that he would fight any challenge.
Watch: Politics isn’t about the public anymore — it’s about the Westminster village, says former Labour insider
17:30 , Rebecca WhittakerReform councillor who said Holocaust was a ‘hoax’ quits party days after being elected
17:15 , Rebecca WhittakerA Reform councillor who claimed the Holocaust was a “hoax” has apologised for his comments and quit the party just days after being elected.
Jay Cooper was elected to represent the Bootle West ward on Sefton Council in Merseyside at last week’s local elections, winning 705 votes standing for Nigel Farage's Reform UK.
Read more here by Dan Haygarth:
Councillor who called Holocaust ‘hoax’ quits Reform days after election
Chancellor has pulled out of event amid leadership termoil
17:15 , Rebecca WhittakerThe Chancellor has pulled out of an event she was due to attend in Leeds on Thursday, the Treasury confirmed, citing diary changes.
Rachel Reeves, the MP for Leeds West and Pudsey, has been spotted speaking to MPs in the members’ tea room as Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership looks set to be challenged by Health Secretary Wes Streeting.
High turn over of prime ministers has been 'very damaging', says Jeremy Corbyn
17:00 , Rebecca WhittakerThe high turnover of prime ministers in recent years has been “very damaging to the image of the country as a whole”, former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn said.
Instability in British politics has been partly created by “the collapse of the fundamental values of Labour under Starmer”, the MP for Islington North said.
It is also due to “the growth of Reform with its racist message under Farage and the mobilisation of that kind of politics in our society”, he said.
“That will grow unless you have an alternative which does say it’s going to deal with the issues of expensive, poor quality housing, the issues of insecure employment, issues of underfunded health and education – we need a voice that’s transformative,” he continued.
“We’re now on to yet another, possibly on to yet another, prime minister with… only around two years in office,” he added.
Ed Davey says 'populist politicians' are sowing 'division'
16:50 , Rebecca WhittakerLeader of the Liberal Democrats Ed Davey has accused "populist politicians" of looking to "sow division", referring to last week's election results that saw Reform and and Green Party gains.
He urged the UK to fix our “broken political system before it's too late" and added the King's Speech is "not up to that historic, vital task".
Watch: Starmer cracks joke about Labour turmoil in Commons speech
16:45 , Bryony GoochThe government isn't offering the change the UK needs, claims Ed Davey
16:41 , Rebecca WhittakerLeader of the Liberal Democrats Ed Davey has said his party will vote against the King’s Speech because it "does not offer the change our country needs".
He questioned whether the prime minister has delivered on his promise of “growth”.
He stressed that if the UK doesn’t build "deeper economic alliances with Europe" it will be hit harder by the war in Iran.
However, sir Davey praised Keir Starmer for not bringing the UK into “Trump’s damaging war”, but the Conservatives and Reform urged him to do so.
Starmer 'There is no good reason to oppose' efforts to reignite Brussels relationship
16:30 , Bryony GoochSir Keir Starmer has said “there is no good reason to oppose” his efforts to recalibrate London’s relationship with Brussels.
The prime minister told the commons the government was proposing “bills to increase the pace of change in our NHS, in law enforcement, in controlling our borders and more”.
He added: “Whilst immigration is down, we need to do more. Whilst violent crime is down, it needs to be lower.
“Whilst NHS waiting lists are down, we must go further – a rewiring of the state so the working people of this country feel that it serves their interests.”
Sir Keir later told MPs: “We will, as a defining act of this government, rebuild our relationship with Europe – Britain back at the heart of a stronger Europe.
“That is good for growth. It will reduce the cost of living and strengthen our security. There is no good reason to oppose it.
“So, for our economic security, for our Labour values, this government will act.”
Pictured: MP spotted holding a copy of The Fraud by Owen Jones
16:29 , Rebecca WhittakerLabour MP Barry Gardiner can be seen sitting behind the prime minister in the Commons holding a copy of The Fraud by Owen Jones, a book highly critical of Keir Starmer's leadership of the Labour Party.
Gardiner is one of more than 90 Labour members to call for the prime minister to stand down.
Starmer to navigate closer relations with EU 'carefully'
16:15 , Bryony GoochSir Keir Starmer said he will navigate closer relations with the European Union “carefully”.
Responding to an intervention from TUV MP Jim Allister (North Antrim), the prime minister said: “I’m very well aware of the tensions in Northern Ireland, the issues that have to be dealt with in relation to relations with the EU.
“We have to face the fact that promises were made about Brexit, which were not true, which haven’t borne fruit.
“It is in our economic interests, our national interest, and defence interests, to be closer to Europe. Of course, we will navigate carefully, taking on board the issues in Northern Ireland, as he would expect, but it is in our interest to be closer to the EU.”
Sir Keir was also pressed by Conservative MP Lincoln Jopp (Spelthorne) on when the defence investment plan will be published, to which he said it “is being finalised and will be published soon”.
Wes Streeting appears to have been pulled from the morning round
16:10 , Bryony GoochThe Independent’s political editor David Maddox reports:
Wes Streeting’s team was briefing over the weekend that he was due to be doing the broadcast round on Thursday, the day NHS data was coming out.
Now Downing Street have said he was never due to be on it leading Labour MPs to suggest he has been pulled.
With the health secretary expected to resign from Keir Starmer’s government tomorrow it is not a surprise that they do not want him on the airwaves.
Understand that the government has pulled Wes Streeting from tomorrow morning's media round. He was due on to discuss NHS data.
— David Maddox (@DavidPBMaddox) May 13, 2026
Watch: Badenoch quotes Labour as 'f*****g useless' in fiery Commons speech
16:00 , Bryony GoochPrime minister says party will use Labour values as 'compass'
15:59 , Bryony GoochSir Keir Starmer has said his party will use “Labour values” as its “compass”.
The prime minister said: “Right now across the country, people turn on their television and they see bombs falling, they go to the petrol station and see prices rising, and they’re worried sick about the consequences.
“We cannot stand here in this House and pretend that this is new. Britain has been buffeted by crises for decades – the 2008 financial crash, the austerity that followed it, Brexit, Covid, and the war that still rages in Ukraine.
“And the response, their response, is always the same, a desperate attempt to get back to a status quo, a status quo that failed working people, decimated their public services, and made them pay the price. Our response this time must and will be different – a complete break.”
Sir Keir later added: “Faced with challenges, we don’t retreat from our Labour values – we use them as our compass.
“Strength through fairness, so we will keep supporting those who need it most, including by creating a new national programme to redistribute surplus food so that no one in this country needs to go hungry because of the conflict overseas.
“We also need to strengthen our sovereign capabilities because the days when this country turns its back on our critical industries – they are over.”
Starmer jokes around ongoing leadership crisis - Streeting can be seen laughing
15:51 , Bryony GoochSir Keir Starmer joked about the ongoing turmoil surrounding his leadership as he spoke in the Commons.
The prime minister said: “The gracious speech was brilliantly proposed by my honourable friend, the member for Bradford West (Naz Shah).
“Members across the House will have read her remarkable new book. Her list of endorsements is truly impressive, reaching well over 100 members – at last, a list that we could all get behind.”
Health secretary Wes Streeting could be seen laughing along to jokes made by the prime minister, despite reports he is launching a leadership bid.
Starmer responds to Badenoch: the Tories 'are no longer even the opposition'
15:49 , Bryony GoochSir Keir Starmer now responds to the leader of the opposition’s “usual warm and generous nature,” he joked.
He said. both the Labour Party and Conservatives "have one thing in common" in that they both had "tough results in the local elections last week".
"The difference is she hasn't noticed," Starmer added.
He later said: “Mr Speaker, we are in government, and they are no longer even the opposition.”
Watch: Badenoch hits out at Streeting in heated Commons speech: 'No point giving me dirty looks'
15:40 , Bryony GoochSir Keir Starmer stands to speak in response to Badenoch
15:38 , Bryony GoochThe prime minister has stood to speak for the first time since the King’s Speech.
We will bring you the top lines.
Badenoch: 'The starting gun for the Labour leadership contest has been fired'
15:32 , Bryony GoochKemi Badenoch has claimed the “starting gun for the Labour leadership contest has been fired” as she joked about the potential candidates who have been mooted to take over as prime minister for Sir Keir Starmer amid the leadership crisis.
“When you can only get a quarter of your MPs to publicly back you, the game is up,” she said. “So the starting gun of the Labour leadership contest has been fired. So let's have a look at the runners and riders.
“We have the former deputy prime minister, Speaker... who has given up vaping. She's not here. She's given up vaping, but still hasn't paid her taxes,” he joked about Angela Rayner.
“We have the health secretary who accidentally sent his takeover plans to no 10,” she said about Wes Streeting, before moving onto the mayor of Greater Manchester.
“A self proclaimed winner... who has twice failed to win the Labour leadership, including against the member for Islington North.”
Streeting responds to Badenoch's jibes in opposition address
15:28 , Bryony GoochWes Streeting could be seen retorting to Kemi Badenoch’s speech as she made reference to his alleged coup against Sir Keir Starmer.
The leader of the opposition criticised the government for using the King’s Speech to re-announce policies, such as the decision to scrap NHS England - something which was announced last year.
She joked: “But then, I suppose the health secretary has been a bit distracted lately.”
At this point, Streeting could be heard responding to Ms Badenoch’s jokes, looking irritated.
“He's chuntering now,” she said. “Why don't you just do your job? Do your job.”
She added: “There's no point in giving me dirty looks. You all know what he's been asking.”
Badenoch: 'They want to lead our country, they can't even lead a coup'
15:23 , Bryony GoochIn yet another reference to the Labour Party’s leadership struggle, leader of the opposition Kemi Badenoch said the party “can’t even lead a coup”, let alone the country.
“Mr Speaker, but this, I know they don't they don't want to hear it. Look at them. They are so arrogant. They want to lead our country. They can't even lead a coup.
“It is so obvious that they cannot handle being in government, they cannot handle it. They hate the responsibility.”
Recap: Labour MP Chris Vince signals support for Starmer before Badenoch speaks
15:20 , Bryony GoochLabour’s Chris Vince signalled support for Sir Keir Starmer as he seconded the loyal address in the Commons.
The Harlow MP said: “This line, I think, perfectly sums up this Government and that is: we should always remember it’s a marathon and not a sprint. I respectfully remind members of that.”
Badenoch: 'The prime minister is in office, but not in power'
15:19 , Bryony GoochLeader of the opposition Kemi Badenoch has criticised Sir Keir Starmer early on in her address to the House of Commons following the King’s Speech.
She said “Mr Speaker, I know the convention is for this to be a light hearted debate, but as I've already said, this is a highly unusual moment. The prime minister is in office, but not in power. Everyone is trying to pretend it's all right. It's not all right.
“In the past 48 hours, nearly 100 labor, MPs have called for the Prime Minister to resign. Four ministers have quit. It is clear, his authority has gone, and that he will not be able to deliver what little there is in this King's Speech.”
Leader of the Opposition speaks as debates begin
15:15 , Bryony GoochFollowing a speech by Chris Vince, Labour MP for Harlow, Kemi Badenoch is speaking as debates following the King’s Speech opens.
We will bring you the latest lines.
MPs cheer as minister tells Starmer he knows ‘how to fight on’
15:13 , Bryony GoochNaz Shah jokes nobody can say the prime minister doesn't 'know how to fight on'
15:05 , Bryony GoochAs part of her opening the humble address, Naz Shah joked that nobody can say the prime minister does not “know how to fight on” as she opened the King’s Speech debate.
Bradford West MP Naz Shah compared Sir Keir Starmer to Labour Party founder, Keir Hardie as she spoke in the Commons.
She said: “It was in Bradford that a man named Keir first took the chair of the Labour movement. And despite 130 years, two world wars and roughly 47 leadership elections, the party remains in the hands of a Keir.
“Prime Minister, nobody can say that you don’t know how to fight on.”
Naz Shah opens humble address with joke about Wes Streeting
15:02 , Bryony Gooch“A King’s Speech is meant to be a fresh start,” says Naz Shah, MP for Bradford West. She is the first Muslim MP to be invited to propose the humble address after the king’s speech, a position typically reserved for backbenchers.
The MP made a joke about health secretary Wes Streeting.
She said of the minister, who is reportedly considering resignation to launch a leadership challenge:"Mr Speaker, chicken tikka masala might be the UK's national dish, but I must inform the whole House that you have not had a curry until you have had a Bradford curry," she added.
"Bradford does curry like nowhere else. The curries are that good they even defy the current Mounjaro jab,” she said. "A note to the health secretary - he may well have to develop a stronger solution.
"I recommend Bradford Curry to all members of this House.”
Watch: MP shouts 'not now Andy' as Black Rod knocks Commons door
15:00 , Bryony GoochSpeaker of the Commons warns MPs not to make 'sideswipes during questions or debates'
14:52 , Bryony GoochSir Lindsay Hoyle warned MPs not to make “sideswipes during questions or debates” if they feel their colleagues have failed to meet the standards expected of them.
In a statement to mark the start of Wednesday afternoon’s business, he said: “Our constituents expect us to focus on the very serious issues that they care about rather than making cheap attacks on each other.
“If a member falls short of the standards expected of us all, there are ways of dealing with that but not by accusations made as sideswipes during questions or debates.
“If we fail to treat each other with respect in debate, that diminishes our work and risks of raising the temperature of discussions outside this place, particularly on social media, which already too often descend to abuse against members and others.”
Content of PM’s conversations with Streeting unclear
14:44 , Bryony GoochThe Independent’s political reporter Athena Stavrou reports:
Downing Street declined to give more information on Sir Keir Starmer’s meeting with Wes Streeting today.
The prime minister and the health secretary had a very brief meeting in No 10 this morning, amid rumours Mr Streeting is preparing to resign to launch a leadership bid.
The prime minister’s spokesman declined to “get into the content of internal meetings” when asked for details of what was discussed, adding: “But the prime minister has full confidence in the health secretary.”
Speaker of the Commons reminds members to observe code of conduct as debate begins
14:42 , Bryony GoochMaking a statement at the start of business, speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle began by “reminding members of their duty to observe the code of conduct and the behaviour code agreed by the House, and to behave with civility and fairness in all of their dealings”.
He added: “Unacceptable behaviour that doesn’t meet the standard of these codes will be dealt with seriously, independently and with effective sanctions.”
To jeers and laughter from both sides of the chamber, Sir Lindsay later said: “I remind ministers that the government’s own ministerial code made clear that important policy announcements should be made in the first instance in this House when sitting – and some people seem to have short memories.”
Debates on King's Speech begin
14:39 , Bryony GoochThe House of Commons has agreed a motion of thanks to the King after his speech earlier today.
We will bring you the top lines as debate continues over the next few days.
Nigel Farage faces parliamentary watchdog probe over £5m gift
14:30 , Bryony Gooch
Nigel Farage faces parliamentary watchdog probe over £5m gift from crypto billionaire
King's speech reflects scale of Starmer's ambition, says Downing St
14:21 , Bryony GoochDowning Street has insisted the King’s Speech reflects the scale of Sir Keir Starmer’s ambition and the government’s “commitment to change”.
Asked about how Sir Keir has responded to criticism that he is too incrementalist with his plans, the prime minister’s official spokesman said: “What you’ve heard from the prime minister over the last few days is his commitment to change.
“He said ‘change cannot come quickly enough for millions of people who’ve been failed by the status quo over many decades’.
“The prime minister has set out a serious vision about how we can become a stronger and fairer Britain.”
He said the 34 Bills and three draft Bills in the King’s speech show the “scale of that ambition”.
“This is about sustained delivery, not short-term fixes, but long-term change, and that is what the Prime Minister is committed to getting on with.”
Nationalising British Steel a 'measure of last resort' says Downing St
14:16 , Bryony GoochIntroducing powers to nationalise British Steel is a “measure of last resort”, Downing Street said.
The prime minister’s official spokesman was asked by reporters if the description of the Bill as a “last resort” in documents appended to the King’s Speech meant the government did not yet intend to go ahead with taking public ownership of the Scunthorpe steel plant.
He responded: “I think you’ve got the prime minister on record from earlier in this week in his own words, setting that out. But, look, last year we took a decision to take control of British Steel’s blast furnaces, passing emergency powers to maintain steel production.
“That has saved thousands of jobs and protected our sovereign capabilities. Safeguarding the long-term future of Britain’s steel capability and capacity is in our national interest, and will never stand aside when the national interest is under threat.
“Now we’re taking the next step in bringing forward legislation which would grant powers to this government to take full ownership of British Steel, subject to meeting a public interest test.
“It has not been possible to agree a commercial sale with the current owner. We don’t take the decision to introduce the Bill lightly. We consider it, as you say, a measure of last resort.”
Analysis: How Starmer can reassert his authority by sacking Wes Streeting
14:10 , Rebecca WhittakerWith Wes Streeting now expected to resign, the prime minister has little to lose – and much more to gain – by sacking him early, says The Independent’s political editor David Maddox.
How Starmer can reassert his authority by sacking Wes Streeting
Read more here:
Reform councillor asks to monitor UFO activity as part of Doncaster Sheffield Airport reopening
14:00 , Bryony GoochA Reform UK councillor proposed monitoring UFOs above an airport due to reopen in Yorkshire.
Thorne and Moorends Ward councillor Kieran Lay suggested to a City of Doncaster Council meeting that a "Doncaster UAP Overview and Safety Committee or panel" should be established to track "unidentified anomaly phenomena," also known as UFOs, at Doncaster Sheffield Airport.
The airport closed in 2022 after its owner said it was no longer financially viable. Doncaster Council is planning to reopen it, with a £57m loan to support this.
"If we are serious about delivering a safe, successful airport for the people of Doncaster, shouldn't we at least examine all verified data, including the UAP activity recorded right here, before committing any further public money?" Mr Lay asked.
Watch the moment here:
Reform councilor asks to monitor UFO activity as part of airport reopening
PM still has ‘full confidence’ in Streeting
13:59 , Rebecca WhittakerThe Independent’s political reporter Athena Stavrou reports:
Sir Keir Starmer still has “full confidence” in Wes Streeting, despite rumours the health secretary is poised to resign and launch a leadership bid.
Speaking after four ministers resigned in the wake of a Labour rebellion, the prime minister’s official spokesperson insisted Sir Keir still has “full confidence in his Cabinet”.
Asked if he specifically had confidence in Streeting, he said: “Yes.”
Streeting has reportedly told allies that he is preparing to resign and trigger a leadership contest as soon as tomorrow, after his brief meeting in Downing Street with Sir Keir.
Pushed on whether Streeting would remain in post as health secretary until the end of the week, the spokesperson repeated that the prime minister has “full confidence” in him.
Shelter says council housing is the only solution to the 'housing emergency'
13:52 , Rebecca WhittakerA housing charity has called on the government to deliver the “housing revolution it promised” two years ago.
Sarah Elliott, Chief Executive of Shelter, said: “The government is absolutely right to protect our stock of social homes in the Social Housing Renewal Bill. But with England on the brink of a cost-of-living catastrophe, it’s high time it delivers the council housing revolution it promised two years ago.
“Stemming the loss of social homes through Right-to-Buy and better protecting survivors of domestic abuse in social housing is a step in the right direction. But the government needs to go further to give hope to the generation of children trapped in temporary accommodation and families losing sleep over affording sky-high private rents.
“There’s only one solution to the housing emergency: a new generation of social homes. To get councils building the government must free them from the mountains of unfair housing debt that is holding them back. This is the step change necessary to ramp up to the 90,000 social rent homes we need a year for ten years.”
Ticketmaster criticise absence of anti-touting legislation in King's Speech
13:45 , Bryony GoochTicket distribution company Ticketmaster has criticised the government for not including legislation to stop ticket touts in the King’s Speech.
Ticketmaster’s UK managing director, Sarah Slater, said:“No definitive legislative action to stop ticket touts profiteering is disappointing.
“Ticketmaster voluntarily capped resale prices at face value back in 2018 and continues to invest in protecting fans with safer digital tickets, stronger bot detection, clearer pricing and better information in the queue.
“As long as touts are allowed to make huge profits reselling tickets on other platforms, the problem will continue.”
Analysis: How has Wes Streeting performed as health secretary?
13:38 , Bryony GoochThe Independent’s health correspondent Rebecca Thomas reports:
As he looks set to mount a leadership bid, Wes Streeting professed his successes as health secretary on the social media platform X.
He said NHS waiting lists are falling, ambulances are arriving faster, there are more GPs, and higher patient satisfaction.
Waiting lists have been decreasing since August 2025, now standing at 7.22 million. However, momentum towards waiting lists faces pressures from continuing doctors’ strikes, which the health secretary has yet to quash.
Ambulance response times are improving, but A&E waiting times and performance are hardly budging.The 2025 British Social Attitudes survey showed 26 per cent of British adults were satisfied with how the NHS runs, the first increase since 2019. However, views on individual services, such as GP services, have not significantly changed. In line with previous years, 35 per cent of people said they were satisfied with GP services, and a fifth said they were satisfied with A&E.
Data for March 2026 showed 28,590 full-time GPs were working (including those training) - up from 27,041 in July 2024.
So it's a mixed bag; some of the data is pointing in the right direction, but there is valid scepticism.
Cabinet minister Benn praises Starmer's record in government amid leadership crisis
13:36 , Bryony GoochA Cabinet minister has praised Sir Keir Starmer’s record in government and said he “takes his responsibilities very seriously”.
Northern Ireland secretary Hilary Benn told Sky News: “This is a really serious time. It’s a really serious time. And the thing about Keir Starmer, and I’ve known him a long time, is that he takes his responsibilities very seriously.
“Look at how he has transformed Britain’s reputation in the world.
“Now, we don’t have to have very long memories to go back to the chaos of the last government, a government which signed international agreements with no intention of honouring them at all … and Keir Starmer building that relationship with the American president, saving Jaguar Land Rover, and the workers know that.”
Andy Burnham: The ‘King of the North’ with No 10 in his sights
13:30 , Bryony GoochThe writing appears to be on the wall for Sir Keir Starmer, and Labour desperately needs a leader who can see off the dual threats of the Greens and Reform UK. The Independent’s associate editor Sean O’Grady asks whether the ‘King of the North’ could be the party’s knight in shining armour, even if – for now at least – he doesn’t have a Westminster seat.
Read more here:
Andy Burnham: The ‘King of the North’ with No 10 in his sights
