Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, is facing mounting pressure within his Labour Party just one year after a landslide election victory. Reports from Sky News and other sources indicate that dissatisfaction with his leadership is growing among influential Labour MPs, with some suggesting he could be ousted or forced to resign within months if the party performs poorly in the May 2026 local elections in Wales. Starmer's authority has been questioned following a series of policy U-turns and struggles to maintain party unity. Labour ally and MP Maurice Glasman has stated that Starmer has six months to implement major changes to sustain his premiership. Meanwhile, Starmer has publicly described himself as a "hard bastard," signaling his resolve amid the political turmoil. Compounding his challenges, Starmer is confronting a fresh backbench revolt over proposed reforms to special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support. Education Minister Stephen Morgan has been unable to guarantee that children with special needs will retain their current legally enforceable education, health, and care plans (EHCPs), prompting alarm among MPs, parents, and campaigners who fear these changes are a cost-cutting measure. The controversy has deepened divisions within Labour, with critics branding the reforms as "welfare mark two" and warning that Starmer is losing control of his party. As opposition intensifies, questions remain about Starmer’s ability to lead the government through these challenges and maintain Labour’s hold on power.
As the left rallies against it, can this government stand another four years? @AaronBastani: Starmerism is disintegrating https://t.co/XMLm1DvEBG
Labour rebellion over special needs support backed by top Tory after 'sham' benefits bill: 'Keir Starmer has lost control!' https://t.co/24pIL4k1kS
Government urged to keep education plans for children with special needs https://t.co/GbWPgOXSMi