Sir Keir Starmer Defies Resignation Demands After Labour's By-Election Setback
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has firmly rejected calls for his resignation in the wake of Labour's disappointing performance in the Gorton & Denton by-election. The contest, held on February 27, 2026, resulted in a stunning victory for the Green Party, which overturned what was traditionally a safe Labour seat.
Historic Green Triumph Leaves Labour in Third Place
Hannah Spencer of the Green Party secured a landmark win, defeating Labour in a constituency that had long been considered a stronghold for the party. In a further blow to the government, Labour did not even manage to secure second place, finishing behind Reform UK and landing in third position overall.
When questioned about whether he had contemplated stepping down, Sir Keir responded with determination, stating he would "keep on fighting" for the citizens who require a Labour government. He characterized the outcome as "disappointing" but emphasized his commitment to public service.
"I came into politics late in life to fight for change for those people who need it," the Prime Minister declared. "I will keep on fighting for those people for as long as I’ve got breath in my body."
Starmer Pledges to Combat Political Extremism
In addition to reaffirming his resolve, Sir Keir vowed to "fight against extremes in politics" from both the left and the right, warning that such forces risk "tearing our country apart." This statement underscores his centrist approach amid growing political polarization.
Internal Criticism from Labour MP
Despite the Prime Minister's steadfast stance, internal dissent has emerged within Labour ranks. MP Brian Leishman publicly called for Sir Keir's resignation, arguing that voters have rejected the leader's "bad judgement calls."
Mr. Leishman criticized Sir Keir's strategy, asserting: "The Prime Minister has taken our Labour Party in the wrong direction by trying to out-Reform, Reform. We need to be a proper Labour government and live by real Labour Party values. He has proved that he is not the leader that can and will do that. He has to go for the good of Scotland, the UK and the party."
This internal conflict highlights the challenges facing Labour as it grapples with its electoral future and ideological direction following this significant by-election loss.
