Sun 17 May 2026 at 1:16amSun 17 May 2026 at 1:16amFormer UK health secretary Wes Streeting speaks at the Progress annual conference in London. (Reuters: Jaimi Joy)Former UK health secretary Wes Streeting says he will challenge Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in any leadership contest held, days after stepping down and urging Sir Keir to set a timetable for his departure."We need … the best candidates on the field, and I will be standing," Mr Streeting told a conference of the Progress group of Labour supporters on Saturday.In his speech, Mr Streeting again criticised Sir Keir for failing to meet the moment in government, and said the brewing battle should be a "proper contest where all candidates can put their best foot forward.""The voters did more than send Labour a message last week, they issued a warning: that unless we change course, we risk being the handmaidens of Nigel Farage and the break-up of the United Kingdom," he said.He also strongly backed the UK's return to the European Union, almost a decade after the referendum result that plunged British politics into chaos and ended the careers of several prime ministers.Challengers circle StarmerMr Streeting is considered to be a credible challenger to Sir Keir if a leadership challenge eventuates (a member of parliament needs the support of one-fifth — or 81 — of Labour's 403 members before a challenge can be launched).However, he is far from the only Labour figure canvassing a run for the top job.Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, a popular former MP known by the nickname "King of the North", has been given permission by the Labour executive to stand in an upcoming special election for the seat of Mayfield.It will be a tricky battle, but if he were to win and return to parliament, he would be considered the front-runner to replace the prime minister.Others said to be considering a run include former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner, armed services minister Al Carns, and former party leader Ed Miliband.ABC/Wires