UK’s Starmer vows bold reset to shore up leadership amid party unrest

LONDON: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday promised a more “bold and urgent” approach to governing as he sought to revive his political fortunes and head off growing speculation over a potential leadership challenge within the Labour Party.

Speaking in London, Starmer made an impassioned appeal to voters and his party to give him more time, warning that any leadership contest would plunge the government into “chaos” at a time of global instability and domestic economic pressure.

“I know I have my doubters and I know I need to prove them wrong. And I will,” Starmer said, acknowledging frustration over his leadership following a series of poor local election results.

The prime minister said Britain faced one of the most dangerous global environments in decades, citing conflicts including Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East, and pledged a “complete break” from past policymaking to restore public trust and improve living standards.

He said his government would now focus on delivering a “stronger, fairer” Britain, aiming to counter political pressure from the right-wing Reform UK party and the Green Party.

Starmer, who led Labour to a landslide victory in 2024, admitted mistakes but defended key decisions, including his stance on foreign policy and efforts to stabilise public services.

“I’m not going to walk away,” he said, rejecting calls from some within his party for a leadership timetable or contest.

His remarks come amid growing internal debate within Labour after significant losses in local elections across England, Scotland and Wales.

Catherine West, a junior former minister, has called for a leadership contest timetable, while others have urged immediate change. However, no senior Labour figure has formally challenged Starmer.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, seen as a potential rival, said the government would ultimately be judged on “actions, not words”.

Starmer said further policy announcements would be included in an upcoming King’s Speech, including measures on apprenticeships, industry support and potential reforms to education and infrastructure.

“I also feel a deep sense of personal responsibility to deliver on the mandate we won in 2024,” he said, asking critics for “another chance” to prove his leadership.