Keir Starmer’s Leadership Under Threat as Labour MPs Prepare for Possible Defections
Keir Starmer is facing growing pressure from within his own party as Labour MPs discuss the possibility of defecting to the Green Party if Andy Burnham fails to win the upcoming Makerfield by-election.
The situation highlights the fragile state of Starmer’s leadership less than two years after Labour won a large majority in the general election.
The Makerfield By-Election
The by-election in Makerfield has become a major test for Starmer. Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, is standing as the Labour candidate. Current polling suggests he is the strong favourite to win the seat.
Many within Labour see a Burnham victory as the trigger for a leadership challenge against Starmer. Some MPs believe Burnham would be better placed to lead the party and improve its standing with voters.
However, the situation is more complicated than it first appears. Even if Burnham wins and goes on to challenge Starmer, it is not guaranteed that he would succeed in removing him. At the same time, if Burnham fails to win the by-election, it could accelerate moves against Starmer from a different direction.
Reports of Potential Defections
According to reports, some left-wing Labour backbenchers are already in contact with the Green Party and have expressed interest in defecting if Burnham does not win in Makerfield.
Senior figures such as Clive Lewis and Richard Burgon are among those mentioned as potentially willing to leave Labour for the Greens. A Green Party source has confirmed that while the party is primarily focused on winning elections, it remains open to discussions with individuals who share its values.
This development is significant. A wave of defections from Labour to the Greens would further weaken Starmer’s position and damage the party’s credibility with voters.
Internal Divisions Exposed
Labour MP Jess Phillips has added to the speculation by suggesting that a change of prime minister could still happen even if Burnham does not win the by-election. Her comments reflect a widespread view within parts of the party that Starmer’s position is no longer secure.
The situation has created an unusual dynamic. Some MPs appear to want Starmer removed regardless of the outcome in Makerfield. If Burnham wins, they see it as an opportunity to launch a leadership contest. If he loses, others are prepared to leave the party altogether.
This level of internal discontent so early in a parliament is unusual and points to deep divisions over the direction of the party under Starmer.
What Happens Next?
The timeline is relatively clear. The Makerfield by-election is scheduled for 18 June. The result will have major implications for Starmer’s future:
- If Burnham wins, a leadership contest between him and Starmer becomes highly likely.
- If Burnham loses, some left-wing MPs may follow through on threats to defect to the Green Party.
Either outcome presents significant challenges for Starmer. A leadership contest would be divisive, while defections would further reduce Labour’s majority and damage party unity.
A Party in Turmoil
Less than two years after winning a landslide election victory, Labour is already dealing with serious internal instability. The combination of poor polling, policy disagreements, and growing speculation about Starmer’s leadership has created an atmosphere of uncertainty.
For now, Starmer remains in Number 10. However, the coming weeks — and particularly the result in Makerfield — could determine whether he stays there for much longer. The party that promised stability and change is now facing the very real prospect of further turmoil.
