London: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing growing pressure from within his own party as questions mount over his leadership following a political scandal and a series of senior resignations.
The debate intensified after the leader of Scottish Labour publicly called on Starmer to step down, marking the most serious internal challenge since Labour returned to power. While Starmer has so far refused to resign, saying he has a clear mandate to govern, party divisions are becoming increasingly visible.
The current crisis centres on Starmer’s decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as Britain’s ambassador to the United States. The appointment sparked controversy after fresh revelations emerged about Mandelson’s past links to Jeffrey Epstein, raising questions over vetting procedures. Mandelson is now facing a police investigation, adding to the political fallout.
The situation worsened after Starmer’s chief of staff and his communications director both resigned, taking responsibility for advising on the appointment. Their departures have fuelled criticism that the prime minister failed to exercise proper judgement at a crucial moment.
Under Labour Party rules, Starmer could face a formal leadership challenge if at least 20 percent of Labour members of parliament back a rival candidate. If Starmer were to resign, or if a contest were triggered, Labour would hold a leadership election, with party members ultimately choosing the new leader and prime minister if more than one candidate qualifies.
Despite the pressure, some senior figures continue to support Starmer. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy and housing minister Steve Reed have urged party unity, warning that internal conflict could undermine the government’s ability to govern effectively.
However, calls for change have grown louder. Anas Sarwar said the controversy had damaged public trust and argued that Labour needed fresh leadership to move forward.
Financial markets have also reacted to the uncertainty. The pound has weakened, government borrowing costs have risen and share prices have dipped as investors assess the risk of prolonged political instability in Britain.
For now, Starmer remains in office and insists he will continue to lead. But with senior voices divided and party tensions rising, the possibility of a leadership challenge is no longer theoretical, placing the future of his premiership under intense scrutiny.