Keir Starmer’s Future in Doubt as Minister Avoids Backing Him for Next Election

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Pressure on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer deepened after a Labour minister repeatedly refused to confirm he would lead in the next election.

By TRH World Desk

London, May 12, 2026 — Pressure mounted further on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Tuesday after a senior Labour minister repeatedly declined to confirm whether Starmer would remain Prime Minister through the next general election.

In an interview with Times Radio, the minister acknowledged growing unrest within the ruling Labour Party following damaging local election results but insisted the government remained focused on governance rather than internal divisions.

The minister said many Labour MPs were “hurting” after the election setbacks and accepted that discussions were underway within the party about the lessons to be learned. However, he urged colleagues to conduct those conversations privately rather than stoking public instability.

“We have to keep the public in mind,” the minister said, warning that Labour risked appearing distracted by internal politics instead of focusing on improving living standards and public services.

Significantly, when repeatedly asked whether Starmer should stay on as Prime Minister until the next election, the minister avoided offering direct support. Instead, he said it would be for Starmer himself to decide “what he may or may not want to do in the future.”

The remarks are likely to intensify speculation over Starmer’s political future, particularly after reports that dozens of Labour MPs and several cabinet figures have privately questioned his leadership following recent poll setbacks.

The minister nonetheless defended Labour’s record since its landslide victory in the 2024 general election, saying the government had been in office for less than two years and should remain focused on delivering for voters.

Asked directly whether Starmer would still be Prime Minister at the next election, the minister replied: “In politics, it always is,” suggesting the leadership question remained open.

The growing uncertainty comes at a sensitive time for Labour as it faces mounting pressure over the economy, immigration and voter dissatisfaction, while populist and opposition parties seek to capitalise on the party’s internal tensions.

FAQs:

Why is Keir Starmer under pressure?

Keir Starmer is facing criticism within Labour after poor local election results and growing concerns over the government’s handling of economic and political issues.

Did the minister back Starmer publicly?

No. The minister avoided directly confirming that Starmer would remain Labour leader and Prime Minister until the next election.

What is causing tensions inside Labour?

The tensions are linked to election setbacks, falling public support, economic concerns and fears that Labour is becoming distracted by internal leadership disputes.