Blair says Labour needs debate before selecting new leader as he criticises Burnham speech – UK politics live

Former Prime Minister Tony Blair has published a lengthy essay criticizing Labour's current leadership, including Keir Starmer, Andy Burnham, and Wes Streeting, for allegedly jeopardizing the party's future. Blair advocates for abandoning the net zero policy and suggests moving closer to Donald Trump, emphasizing the importance of the US relationship for Britain. The article also mentions Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk stating that a new Polish-British defense treaty will focus on countering Russia. Additionally, Blair discusses a plan he helped put together to end the war in Gaza, with ongoing negotiations involving Hamas regarding a new government in Gaza.

Wes Streeting, former health secretary, has launched a "shadow campaign" for the Labour leadership, asserting he can win despite being an "underdog." He believes Keir Starmer's leadership is unsustainable following recent election results and warns of a potential Reform government if Starmer remains. In a Guardian interview, Streeting outlined his policy proposals, including addressing temporary accommodation for children, establishing a national care service, introducing a wealth tax, and reviewing refugee plans. He claims to have the necessary MP support for a contest but delayed his announcement out of respect for Andy Burnham. Streeting insists his platform is consistent with his career and that he can persuade party members.

UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has called Wes Streeting's recent call for Britain to rejoin the European Union "odd." Streeting, a former cabinet colleague, stated that the country's future lies back in the bloc, a sentiment Nandy acknowledged sharing but questioned the timing of the renewed focus. Nandy emphasized that the current government is working to pragmatically address the damage caused by the Brexit deal without reopening settled debates. Streeting's remarks come amid speculation about a Labour leadership contest and the Makerfield byelection. While Streeting indicated he would stand if a contest begins, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who intends to run in the byelection, stated rejoining the EU would not be a focus of his campaign.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has dismissed speculation about a leadership challenge to Keir Starmer as "froth and nonsense." She stated that despite "feverish speculation" surrounding potential challengers like Andy Burnham and Wes Streeting, no candidate has officially launched a bid to replace Starmer. Nandy emphasized that Starmer made it clear to the cabinet that a formal process exists for triggering a leadership contest, and no one has yet initiated it. She also indicated that Starmer does not intend to resign before the school summer holidays.

Keir Starmer asserts that the "vast majority" of Labour MPs remain supportive, despite controversy surrounding Peter Mandelson. Darren Jones, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, defended Starmer on morning television, stating that Mandelson is rarely mentioned by constituents who are more concerned with issues like energy bills. Conversely, Chris Philp, Shadow Home Secretary, called for Labour backbenchers to remove Starmer if he does not resign. The SNP also demanded Starmer's resignation, reacting to a Daily Mail report suggesting he might sack Chancellor Rachel Reeves. SNP Chief Whip Kirsty Blackman criticized this potential move, stating Starmer is out of touch.