Starmer Says He Will Lead Labour Into 2029 Election Despite Local Defeats

U.K. and insisted he would lead the Labour Party into the next general election due in 2029. The ruling Labour Party suffered heavy local election losses last week.

The results prompted immediate calls from lawmakers within the Labour Party for the prime minister to step down, with Labour MP Catherine West leading calls for a leadership contest. As of 8pm on Sunday, 42 Labour MPs were calling for Starmer's resignation. Catherine West told Sky News on Sunday that she will launch her own bid if Starmer's pitch proves unconvincing.

Starmer's former deputy, Angela Rayner, is another potential leadership candidate. " Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham are also potential leadership challengers, though Burnham would have to be elected as an MP in order to run for the leadership. "I know I need to prove them wrong and I will," Starmer told an audience of supporters.

He is expected to say "You will see hope, urgency and exactly whose side we are on," adding that people need hope. Starmer promoted his government's bid to deepen ties with the European Union. "This Labour Government will be defined by rebuilding our relationship and by putting Britain at the heart of Europe," he said.

Starmer said the government would forge closer links with the continent particularly for young people looking to work, live or study in the EU. He added that this would make the country stronger on the economy, on trade, on defense and more.

904% after Starmer insisted he would not step down. 3% higher.

Borrowing costs closely in the wake of the speech. U.K. has the highest borrowing costs in the G7 group of industrialized nations, reflecting concerns over persistent inflationary pressures and weak growth.