British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under intense pressure to resign after his Labour Party suffered a crushing loss in a by-election and his own unpopularity with voters continues to grow. Starmer was reflecting on the 'political realities' that he faces, a senior minister said on Sunday, amid media reports the premier would resign within days.

The loss in the Makerfield constituency in northwest England has piqued widespread attention, given that veteran politician Andrew Burnham won nearly double Labour's majority. Burnham's victory has increased internal pressure on Starmer to step down, with some even predicting that Britain could get its seventh prime minister in a decade if Starmer leaves.

Despite Starmer's refusal to resign, many within the party are urging him to step down. Business Secretary Peter Kyle described Starmer's consideration of his position as a sign of his engagement with a wide range of people. Kyle said that he had a 'frank' conversation with Starmer on Friday, in which they discussed the challenges that Labour is facing.

Starmer has been clinging to power for months after a tenure marked by policy U-turns, scandals, and ministerial resignations. He was nearly forced out in March, following his decision to appoint ex-Jeffrey Epstein associate Peter Mandelson as Britain's ambassador to Washington. Labour's drubbing in local and regional polls has intensified the pressure on him, and the Makerfield by-election victory has further complicated the situation.

The loss has raised questions about Burnham's potential bid to lead Labour, with some speculating that he could challenge Starmer for the party's leadership and the role of prime minister. Burnham has made it clear that he intends to bid to lead Labour, warning in his by-election victory speech that the party has a 'final chance to change'.

The situation is unfolding at an unpredictable pace, with many waiting to see what will happen next. UK media has reported that Starmer is preparing to announce his departure as early as Monday, although he has yet to make a formal decision.

Key Facts

  • Starmer is under intense pressure to resign after Labour's crushing loss in a by-election.
  • Burnham won nearly double Labour's majority in the Makerfield constituency.
  • Britain could get its seventh prime minister in a decade if Starmer leaves.
  • Starmer has been clinging to power for months after a tenure marked by policy U-turns and scandals.
  • Burnham has made it clear that he intends to bid to lead Labour and challenge Starmer for the party's leadership and the role of prime minister.
  • Labour has a huge parliamentary majority, and Burnham would become prime minister by default if he wins.