Keir Starmer has emphasized that any form of attack on members of his Cabinet is completely unacceptable, addressing the recent briefings targeting Wes Streeting. This statement comes following a situation where speculation emerged about potential leadership plotting within the government.
During a session of PMQs, Prime Minister Starmer commended Health Secretary Streeting’s efforts in reducing NHS waiting lists. However, his assertion of a united Cabinet was met with skepticism from the opposing party benches, resulting in laughter.
Starmer also highlighted the dedication of his chief-of-staff, Morgan McSweeney, and the rest of his team to delivering for the country. When asked about claims of a toxic culture in Downing Street, Starmer reiterated his focus on rebuilding and renewing the nation, firmly stating that any attacks on his Cabinet are unwarranted.
He praised Streeting for surpassing expectations by providing five million additional appointments in the first year of a Labour government, exceeding the initial pledge of two million.
Streeting himself denied any involvement in a leadership challenge against the Prime Minister, labeling such actions as counterproductive. He likened the internal conflicts to a televised show, emphasizing his support for the PM and denouncing the recent attacks.
In a statement to Sky News, Streeting criticized the briefing as unhelpful and untrue, drawing parallels to a recent televised event and expressing his confusion over the motivations behind such actions.