Wes Streeting is reportedly seeking endorsements from key figures within Labour’s left wing as he positions himself for a potential leadership bid, reports BritPanorama.
The Health Secretary will need support from Angela Rayner, Ed Miliband, Lisa Nandy, and Lucy Powell to avoid a contentious election, according to allies. Insiders suggest that unity among these influential Labour MPs could mitigate the risks associated with a protracted leadership contest, especially given the party’s recent struggles in polling.
Concerns about Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership have been growing, with some MPs contemplating a challenge after local elections in May, amid declining poll numbers for the party. Many within Labour prefer to see a smooth transition rather than a divisive contest that might further alienate voters.
An insider remarked, “Everyone wants to avoid a contest, but Wes will need the Soft Left not to scupper his chances. He won’t just need Angela’s endorsement. He will need Ed, Lucy, and Lisa not to stand in the way.” This highlights the delicate balance Streeting must navigate among various party factions.
The “gang of four,” a term referencing the leading voices of Labour’s influential Soft Left faction, has assumed significant importance in this political landscape. Recently, Streeting denied claims that he and Rayner were collaborating on a joint leadership ticket, dismissing such suggestions as mere speculation while emphasizing his focus on resolving the ongoing junior doctors’ strike.
Despite the recent denials, rumors persist in Westminster regarding potential leadership alignments and challenges. Streeting, alongside Rayner and Miliband, remains a prominent figure in discussions concerning the future of Labour’s leadership.
In a new development, some Labour MPs are reportedly forming an SOS – Save Our Starmer – campaign out of fear that Miliband could emerge as the next leader. Miliband, often favored in polls among Labour members, poses a particular concern for those preferring stability over another leadership contest, with one MP expressing, “Launching a leadership contest is like opening Pandora’s Box – we could end up unleashing Ed on the party.”
A spokesperson for Streeting asserted, “The only deal Wes is interested in is with the resident doctors to stop the Christmas strikes,” emphasizing his commitment to addressing current issues facing the party.
As Labour navigates this critical juncture, the dynamics among its key figures will be pivotal in shaping the party’s future direction.
The ongoing discussions within Labour encapsulate the tension between the need for unification and the potential for intra-party rivalry. As the situation evolves, the party faces the central challenge of reconciling its diverse factions while addressing the pressing issues that concern its voter base.
