British Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy ruled out Prime Minister Keir Starmer setting a timeline for his resignation amid the political turmoil gripping the ruling Labour Party.
Lammy told British media on Monday, “Let me be really clear. Keir Starmer remains the most resilient person I know in my life. I spoke to him twice yesterday. He has a strength of character and fighting experience. There will be no timetable.”
He added, “What there is, is getting on with the business of government. [I’m] really crystal clear about that.”
British media reported on Sunday that Starmer’s senior allies urged him to await the initial results of the by-election in the Makerfield constituency of Greater Manchester, where the mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, is running.
Burnham is seen as a potential successor to Starmer as leader of both the party and the country. Former Health Secretary Wes Streeting has also confirmed his participation in the Labour leadership contest.
A British newspaper revealed early Sunday morning that Prime Minister Starmer had informed his close associates of his intention to resign.
The newspaper quoted political commentator Dan Hodges as saying that his sources indicated Starmer has made the decision to step down, but seeks to do so “on his own terms.”
A political crisis erupted in the United Kingdom following the local elections held on May 7, in which the Labour Party suffered a crushing defeat.
According to media reports, more than 90 Labour MPs support Starmer’s resignation. EIR
