Key facts
- Harriet Harman believes Andy Burnham is destined to become Prime Minister.
- Support for Keir Starmer's leadership is reportedly waning rapidly.
- Andy Burnham is seen as a strong contender to replace Starmer.
- Burnham's popularity and experience as Mayor of Greater Manchester are noted.
- Starmer's leadership is under pressure following poor election results and party U-turns.
Talk of Sir Keir Starmer fighting to remain leader of the Labour Party is rapidly fading, with Andy Burnham increasingly seen as the likely successor. Harriet Harman, a long-time Labour figure, has publicly stated that Burnham is "going to be PM," suggesting a significant shift in party sentiment away from Starmer.
Sources indicate that Starmer's position is precarious following recent poor election results and a series of party U-turns. Many in the party believe Burnham, with his popularity and experience as Mayor of Greater Manchester, is better positioned to lead Labour to victory. His past roles as health secretary, culture secretary, and Treasury minister are also highlighted as valuable experience.
Despite some of Starmer's allies believing he could win a leadership contest, a growing number of ministers reportedly feel it would be humiliating for him to attempt to stay. Over 100 MPs are said to be calling for his resignation, and a veteran party figure suggests his leadership is effectively over. However, some acknowledge Starmer's achievements, including progress on NHS waiting lists and managing foreign affairs.