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

Labour leader Keir Starmer is set to deliver a significant speech today, aiming to rally support from his MPs and avert a potential leadership challenge following recent election losses. The speech is being framed as a crucial moment for Starmer, with speculation of a leadership contest already underway, as Angela Rayner has also outlined her vision. Starmer intends to argue that incremental change is insufficient to address the nation's challenges, advocating for a more substantial response on issues like growth, defense, Europe, and energy. This address is seen as Starmer's attempt to demonstrate his leadership and convince the party of his direction, in contrast to historical instances where leaders faced and survived challenges, or were eventually replaced.

Keir Starmer, facing recent local election setbacks, delivered a speech pledging to strengthen ties with the European Union, aiming to position Britain "at the heart of Europe." He suggested this renewed relationship would be a focus for the Labour government, impacting economic, trade, and defense strategies. An anonymous EU contact in Brussels expressed surprise at this shift, particularly given the upcoming ten-year anniversary of the Brexit vote. While Starmer's speech lacked specific new proposals, according to one analyst, the EU's response to his overtures is mixed. On defense and security matters, the UK is seen as a consistent ally, especially in the context of ongoing international crises.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces a significant challenge as his Health Minister, Wes Streeting, is reportedly preparing to resign. This potential resignation, expected as early as Thursday, could trigger a leadership contest and threaten the implementation of the government's agenda, which was outlined during the King's Speech on Wednesday. The report, published by The Times, emerged as the King delivered his speech amidst pomp and ceremony, overshadowing the government's legislative plans. This threat comes after a period of pressure on Starmer following a significant defeat in recent local elections. Financial markets reacted negatively to the news, with government bond futures falling and the pound weakening. Streeting's office has not yet commented on the report.

Online safety campaigners have expressed frustration with Keir Starmer's perceived lack of leadership on blocking child abuse images on children's phones. This sentiment was highlighted following Jess Phillips' resignation from government, where she cited stalled progress on this issue. Campaigners, including the Internet Watch Foundation, have been advocating for tech companies to implement technology that prevents children from taking or sending naked images. They believe this measure, which they presented over a year ago, could significantly reduce the creation of child sexual abuse material at its source. Despite the urgency, progress has been slow, with the government's violence against women and girls strategy only promising collaboration with tech companies rather than mandatory legislation. Recent data shows a significant increase in self-generated imagery within reported child sexual abuse cases.

Long-term UK borrowing costs have reached their highest point since May 1998, with 30-year government bond yields hitting 5.794%. This surge, alongside a falling pound and stock market, is attributed to investor uncertainty surrounding potential leadership changes within the Labour party. Following significant election losses, a minister resigned urging Keir Starmer to quit, though Starmer stated the leadership challenge process had not been triggered. Markets are concerned that any successor might prioritize increased public spending, potentially impacting fiscal rigour and inflation. The benchmark 10-year gilt yield also rose, and the pound weakened against the dollar and euro.