Lammy Insists PM Will Not Set Out A Timetable For Departure

David Lammy has insisted Keir Starmer is not going set out a timetable for his departure from No.10.

The deputy prime minister insisted Starmer will “fight on” despite mounting criticism of his leadership of the Labour Party and the government.

His remarks come amid reports that the PM was contemplating announcing when he will leave Downing Street as his rivals circle.

More than 90 MPs publicly called for Starmer to step down after the party’s catastrophic performance in the elections in England, Wales and Scotland earlier this month.

Four junior ministers also quit the government, while health secretary Wes Streeting also resigned with a furious attack on the prime minister.

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham is also running to be the Labour candidate in next month’s Makerfield by-election, and is widely expected to challenge Starmer himself if he wins.

But despite speculation that Starmer is already preparing to make way for a successor, Lammy claimed the prime minister is not going anywhere.

Speaking to Sky News, he said: “Let me be really clear: Keir Starmer remains the most resilient person I know in my life.

“I spoke to him twice yesterday, he has a strength of character, a fighting experience. There will be no timetables. What there is is getting on with the business of government – really crystal clear about that.

“At the moment, there is no contest. What there is is his determination to deliver for the British people, accelerate the pace over the coming months, much to do.”

“There will be no timetable for the PM’s departure.”

He later told BBC Breakfast: “I believe in loyalty, I believe in trust, I believe conviction.

“I stand by [Starmer].”

“He’s got three years. He has my full support,” he added.

Asked if that meant Starmer would fight any leadership campaign, the cabinet minister said: “He’s been crystal clear that he fights on on behalf of the British people, delivering in government, He has my full support.”

Asked if Starmer will be campaigning for Burnham despite their clear rivalry, he said: “All of us in cabinet will be campaigning to ensure there is a Labour win in Makerfield.”

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