Keir Starmer may resign as UK PM amid reports of Labour MP support for Andy Burnham

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly considering resigning as early as Monday, with The Observer newspaper suggesting his term has reached its end. The potential departure comes amid reports that a significant number of Labour Members of Parliament (MPs) are backing Andy Burnham, the former Mayor of Manchester, as his successor.

Starmer, currently at his Chequers residence, is evaluating his position after Burnham successfully entered Parliament by winning a by-election in Makerfield. This move is seen as a necessary step for Burnham to mount a potential challenge to Starmer's leadership. The Observer's report, echoed by other media outlets, indicates Starmer is preparing to outline a timeline for his exit, feeling his position has become untenable following recent discussions with ministers, union leaders, MPs, and party donors.

The Prime Minister's authority has been notably damaged since the Labour Party's poor performance in the local elections held in England, Scotland, and Wales on May 6th. Burnham's return to Parliament places Starmer in a precarious situation, as Burnham has signaled his intention to contest the leadership and trigger an internal party election.

“

I think he understands the reality. Staying is no longer possible to stop the 'chaos' (in Labour), so there is only one option left. I think he has come to see it as the right option to serve the country and the party.

Sources close to Starmer, speaking anonymously to The Observer, suggest the Prime Minister understands the current situation is unsustainable. One Labour peer reportedly stated, "I think he understands the reality. Staying is no longer possible to stop the 'chaos' (in Labour), so there is only one option left. I think he has come to see it as the right option to serve the country and the party." Another senior Labour figure described Starmer as appearing "resigned" to the situation, acknowledging a lack of necessary support and the non-viability of his continued leadership.

Burnham, who secured a decisive victory over the Reform UK party in Makerfield, is expected to be sworn in as an MP and meet with Starmer. If Starmer does not resign or set a departure date, Burnham is anticipated to challenge for the leadership this week. His supporters claim he already has the backing of over 201 MPs, a crucial number representing half of the parliamentary Labour Party.

“

The truth is that everyone knows this is no longer viable. There is sadness in all of this, of course.