Starmer insists 'majority' of Labour MPs back his leadership

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has affirmed that the vast majority of Labour MPs support his leadership and want him to continue in office, amid growing speculation about a potential challenge from within his party. Speaking to the Sunday Times, Starmer emphasized that while political rumors are common, most Labour parliamentarians are focused on governing rather than engaging in internal disputes. He highlighted that Labour MPs are pleased to be in power after a long wait and prefer to concentrate on their duties quietly. The comments come after Starmer faced criticism both from opposition parties and within Labour over the handling of security vetting for his nominee as UK ambassador to the United States, Lord Mandelson. Security officials had reportedly advised against granting Mandelson clearance, a recommendation that was not directly communicated to Starmer. The prime minister defended his decision to dismiss Sir Olly Robbins, the most senior civil servant in the Foreign Office, for failing to inform him of the security concerns. Robbins had approved the vetting with conditions, stating he was only aware that officials were "leaning against" clearance rather than receiving a formal recommendation to deny it. Starmer rejected suggestions that he should have probed further into the vetting process, citing the volume of decisions he must make daily and the need to trust his officials. The controversy has added to a challenging week for the prime minister, who is also navigating internal party tensions ahead of upcoming elections in Scotland and Wales. Despite the turmoil, Starmer remains resolute in his leadership, underscoring the loyalty of most Labour MPs and their desire to focus on governance rather than factional disputes.