Labour MPs Ask Starmer to Quit After Election Losses

Over 80 Labour MPs want Keir Starmer to step down, which is a big change from last week. One minister has already resigned.
By Newsroom | Politics, United Kingdom |

A significant number of Labour Members of Parliament are publicly diverging from Prime Minister Keir Starmer's leadership, with demands for his resignation or a clear timetable for his exit gaining traction following recent electoral disappointments. This internal friction highlights a deep well of discontent within the party, casting a shadow over Starmer's tenure.

More than 80 Labour MPs have now publicly called for Keir Starmer to stand down, a figure that includes at least three ministers. This growing chorus of dissent signals a substantial challenge to Starmer's authority.

Resignations and Calls for Transition

The situation has escalated with the resignation of Miatta Fahnbulleh, the minister for devolution, faith and communities. Her departure marks a pivotal moment, being the first minister to openly challenge Starmer's leadership. Several other ministerial aides have also reportedly resigned.

Which Labour MPs have come out against Starmer? - 1

Beyond outright calls for resignation, a considerable contingent of MPs is urging Starmer to establish a timeline for a leadership transition. This sentiment, articulated by figures like Lewis, Byrne, Buckley, Abtisam Mohamed, and Anneliese Midgley, suggests a desire for an orderly, albeit expedited, change in direction for the party.

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The Scope of Disagreement

While some within the party, such as Kevin Bonavia, advocate for a singular focus on governance, the sheer volume of MPs voicing opposition indicates Starmer is "still struggling for support." This internal division persists despite cabinet ministers publicly rallying around Starmer. The mechanism for forcibly removing a sitting leader within the Labour party is not straightforward, a point implicitly acknowledged amidst the current political maneuvering.

Background

The current wave of dissent follows disappointing results in recent local and devolved elections, which have intensified scrutiny on Starmer's leadership. The period of heightened calls for his departure began around May 12, 2026, with a significant number of MPs making their stances known in the days leading up to and including Tuesday, May 12, 2026.

Read More: UK Labour Leader Starmer Faces Resignations Amidst Calls to Quit

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are Labour MPs asking Keir Starmer to resign?
More than 80 Labour MPs want Keir Starmer to resign or give a date for his departure. This is happening after the party had poor results in recent local and devolved elections.
Q: Has anyone resigned from Keir Starmer's government?
Yes, Miatta Fahnbulleh, the minister for devolution, faith and communities, has resigned. She is the first minister to publicly ask Starmer to step down.
Q: What do other Labour MPs want if not resignation?
Some Labour MPs want Keir Starmer to set a date for when a new leader will take over. They want a clear plan for changing the party's leadership.
Q: When did these calls for Starmer's resignation start?
The calls for Keir Starmer to resign became stronger around May 12, 2026. Many MPs made their views known in the days around that date.
Q: How many Labour MPs are asking for Starmer to leave?
Over 80 Labour Members of Parliament have publicly asked Keir Starmer to step down. This includes at least three ministers.