Briefings at top of government have sparked fresh questions about PM’s position and potential successors
UK politics live – latest updates
The extraordinary briefing war that erupted at the top of government on Tuesday night has reignited questions about Keir Starmer’s leadership.
Speaking to the Guardian and others, Starmer’s most senior political aides warned that he would fight any “reckless” attempt to challenge him after the budget or May elections, while voicing fears that Wes Streeting, the health secretary, was among those manoeuvring to replace him.
Instead of putting to bed any questions about his future, the briefing has sparked fresh questions about Starmer’s future and thrown the spotlight on Streeting as a potential successor. Here we look at the rules for removing a Labour leader and the possible consequences.









