PM Issues Apology to Streeting Amid Controversial ‘Traitors’ Dispute

Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the UK Labour Party, recently issued an apology to Health Secretary Wes Streeting after a series of allegations emerged. These allegations suggested that Streeting was involved in plotting a leadership challenge against Starmer following the upcoming budget announcement.

Political Controversy Unfolds

The tensions escalated on Wednesday evening when Starmer reached out to Streeting. Although the specifics of their conversation were not disclosed, Starmer attempted to distance himself from the unfounded claims. During Prime Minister’s Questions earlier that day, he denied authorizing attacks against the health secretary.

Denial of Allegations

Streeting responded to the accusations, labeling them as “not true.” He remarked that the individuals behind these briefings were “watching too much Celebrity Traitors.” The health secretary reaffirmed his loyalty to the prime minister, highlighting the increased pressure Starmer faces as Labour struggles in the polls, trailing behind the Reform Party.

Potential Election Implications

The backdrop to this controversy is the upcoming budget, expected to propose tax increases that break previous manifesto promises. Reports suggest that neither Starmer nor Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves have ruled out raising income tax, national insurance, or VAT, potentially complicating the party’s position.

Political analysts note that while a leadership challenge after the budget may be unlikely, the results of the elections next May, which include key contests in London and Wales, could change the dynamics. Labour is contending with challenges from Reform on the right and parties such as the Greens and Plaid Cymru on the left.

Internal Strains at Downing Street

Compounding these issues is scrutiny on the prime minister’s chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney. Following allegations from Streeting about a “toxic culture” within Downing Street, Starmer’s reluctance to express “full confidence” in McSweeney during Prime Minister’s Questions raised eyebrows. However, a spokesperson later insisted McSweeney retains the prime minister’s support.

Investigation into Allegations

Labour chairwoman Anna Turley announced that the prime minister will seek to investigate the source of the claims against Streeting. She stated, “This is not what he wants to see and he’s determined to drive it out.”