Safeguarding minister Jess Phillips has resigned from the government, declaring she can no longer support Sir Keir Starmer as Prime Minister. The Birmingham Yardley MP, a prominent ally of Wes Streeting, posted her resignation statement on X, formerly Twitter, as reported by Sky News. Her departure comes amid growing pressure on Starmer, with allies of Andy Burnham warning against a “coronation” for Streeting as the next prime minister and urging Labour’s ruling body to allow the mayor to stand for leadership.
Resignation Letter Details
In her letter, Phillips acknowledged working closely with Starmer on Violence Against Women and Girls but criticized his leadership. She stated: “I think you are a good man fundamentally, who cares about the right things however I have seen first-hand how that is not enough. The desire not to have an argument means we rarely make an argument, leaving opportunities for progress stalled and delayed.” She also referenced the “Mandelson saga” as a catalyst for action, noting that crises were often needed to prompt progress.
Political Fallout
Labour MP Alex Sobel echoed Phillips’ concerns, saying the Prime Minister failed to “challenge the status quo” in his recent speech. Sobel urged Starmer to “announce a date for his departure so we can have an open contest and an orderly transition,” warning against a rushed process. He highlighted the resignation of Peter Mandelson as a turning point that eroded public trust. “Integrity matters in politics. You cannot tell people their lives are better if they don’t feel it,” Sobel added.
Meanwhile, Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, was spotted at Euston station in London, fueling speculation about a potential leadership bid. The Telegraph published a photograph of Burnham getting into a car after reportedly being seen on a train.
Phillips’ resignation marks a significant blow to Starmer’s government, with internal dissent growing over leadership direction and policy failures. The situation remains fluid as Labour faces calls for a leadership contest.
