Keir Starmer will not set out a timetable to quit: U.K. Deputy PM

Lawmaker Wes Streeting, who quit as Health Minister last week, said on Saturday (May 17) he would stand in any formal leadership contest.

Published – May 18, 2026 11:20 pm IST – LONDON

Reuters

Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer speaks to small business owners during a visit to Home Cafe and Kitchen in Kensal Rise, north west London, as new figures have shown the U.K. recorded stronger than expected economic growth on May 18, 2026.
| Photo Credit: Reuters

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is under intense pressure to quit from within his Labour Party after a set of poor local election results, will not set out a timetable for his departure, his deputy David Lammy said on Monday (May 18, 2026).

The heavy losses for the party in the May 7 polls triggered almost a quarter of his lawmakers to call for him to go, and with two rivals vying to replace him.

Starmer vows to stay on, promises ‘bigger’ changes

“There will be no timetable for departure,” Mr. Lammy told Sky News, adding that he had spoken to the Prime Minister twice on Sunday.

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Lawmaker Wes Streeting, who quit as Health Minister last week, said on Saturday (May 17) he would stand in any formal leadership contest. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is seeking a seat in Parliament that would allow him to make a challenge too.

Mr. Starmer has repeatedly said that he intends to fight any leadership challenge.

Published – May 18, 2026 11:20 pm IST

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