King’s speech overshadowed by Wes revolt

London: British PM Sir Keir Starmer faced mounting pressure on Wednesday as speculation intensified over a possible leadership challenge by Health Secretary Wes Streeting, overshadowing the King’s Speech and the government’s legislative agenda.

King Charles III unveiled the government’s proposed laws during the State Opening of Parliament, setting out plans for infrastructure development, reforms to the police, the National Health Service (NHS) and the criminal justice system, along with a bill aimed at strengthening ties with the European Union after Brexit.

The programme also included measures linked to housing, economic growth, energy security and public service reform. Attention in Westminster, however, shifted rapidly to Labour Party tensions after reports suggested Streeting could resign and launch a leadership bid against Starmer.

“An increasingly dangerous and volatile world threatens the United Kingdom, with the conflict in the Middle East only the most recent example. Every element of the nation's energy, defence and economic security will be tested,” Charles said in his speech.

“My government will respond to this world with strength and aim to create a country that is fair for all. My ministers will take decisions that protect the energy, defence and economic security of the United Kingdom for the long-term.

“They will defend the British values of decency, tolerance and respect for difference under our common flag, and they will harness the potential of the pride felt across this country for its communities,” he said.

A spokesperson for the Prime Minister said Starmer retained “full confidence” in Streeting after the pair held a 17-minute meeting at 10 Downing Street on Wednesday morning.

During the debate on the King’s Speech in the House of Commons, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said Starmer was “in office but not in power” and referred to reports surrounding Streeting’s apparent leadership ambitions.

Starmer defended his government’s record during the Commons exchange and joked about his own recent political difficulties as opposition MPs intensified criticism of his leadership.

Streeting, seated eight places away from the PM in the Commons chamber during proceedings, remained at the centre of speculation over Labour’s leadership turmoil.

Reports said several Labour MPs were increasingly dissatisfied with Starmer following poor local election results and concerns over the government’s political direction.

Financial markets also rea­cted to the uncertainty, with UK government bond yields rising and the pound weakening amid investor concerns over instability within the ruling Labour Party.

—Agencies