Lammy rejects leadership timetable as Starmer faces internal Labour pressure
David Lammy insists Keir Starmer remains determined to govern, dismissing calls for a departure schedule while reaffirming government red lines on EU membership.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy has firmly rejected speculation regarding Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s departure, stating that the leader is not establishing a timetable for his exit from Downing Street. Speaking to Sky News, Lammy urged the Labour Party to move past internal wrangling, describing the recent leadership row as a “spectacular own goal” that undermines the government’s ability to govern effectively.
Lammy, who also serves as justice secretary, described Starmer as the “most resilient person” he knows, citing the prime minister’s strength of character and fighting experience. He noted that he had spoken to Starmer twice recently and emphasised that the prime minister remains focused on delivering for the public. “At the moment, there is no contest,” Lammy said, adding that Starmer’s determination to govern remains unshaken despite the political turbulence.
The comments follow a period of significant internal instability within the Labour Party, marked by the resignation of Health Secretary Wes Streeting on 14 May. Streeting stepped down from the cabinet after stating that Starmer should not lead the party into the next general election, subsequently announcing his intention to challenge for the leadership. Lammy criticised these developments, noting that the party had suffered a setback in local elections on 7 May, losing 1,498 council seats in England and control of the Welsh Senedd.
Tensions have also been heightened by the Makerfield byelection, where sitting Labour MP Josh Simons stepped down to facilitate Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham’s bid to return to Westminster. Lammy acknowledged that Burnham would be a “great addition” to parliament and confirmed he would campaign for him, but insisted that a leadership contest is not currently being considered. He warned that the government must remember its responsibilities and utilise the “levers of power” rather than engaging in opposition-style infighting.
On policy matters, Lammy reaffirmed the government’s red lines regarding the European Union, dismissing Streeting’s recent comments about a long-term future in the union as inconsistent with collective responsibility. While acknowledging his own record as foreign secretary in rebuilding cooperation with EU states and reinstating the Erasmus scheme, Lammy clarified that the government remains committed to its manifesto, ruling out rejoining the customs union, single market, or full membership.