Wes walks, Starmer stays, but has Burnham got the momentum? – The Latest

In a significant political development, Wes Streeting has resigned from his position as Health Secretary, escalating tensions within the Labour Party and casting doubt on Keir Starmer's leadership. Streeting's resignation followed mounting speculation regarding his intentions and potential leadership challenge against Starmer. His resignation letter criticized Starmer's ability to lead the Labour Party into the next election, presenting a call for a broader debate of ideas rather than a conflict of personalities, suggesting that he might be preparing the ground for Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Manchester, to enter the leadership race.

The departure of Streeting has led to arguments within the party regarding the timing and feasibility of a leadership challenge. While some believe that there is significant support for Burnham among MPs and party members, others caution that there remains division among Labour representatives regarding Starmer's leadership, further undermined by the loss of support from trade unions. Despite Streeting's resignation being perceived as a defeat for Starmer's administration, Streeting’s allies indicated that the potential for further resignations may still loom.

Additionally, Angela Rayner, previously in a ministerial role, has been cleared of wrongdoing and could enter the leadership conversation, albeit she appears unlikely to directly challenge Starmer. The episode concludes with thoughts on the implications of these developments for the future direction of Labour in light of public opinion and upcoming elections.