Keir Starmer, the Labour leader, has stated that there has been no official briefing against Wes Streeting from Downing Street, despite the recent conflict within the party. Following accusations that Wes Streeting was plotting a coup, the Prime Minister addressed his team on Thursday to address the situation.
Streeting refuted the allegations, prompting the PM to condemn any form of briefing against ministers as “completely unacceptable.” He emphasized his longstanding stance against such actions since taking office and made it clear that he will not tolerate it. The PM affirmed his intention to address any misconduct, should it be identified.
When asked about potential consequences for those responsible, the PM asserted his commitment to holding individuals accountable for briefing against ministers. He expressed confidence in his chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, who had been implicated in the incident by some members of parliament.
The PM acknowledged the need to fulfill the promises made during the election to regain support from MPs. Stressing the importance of delivering change, he emphasized that the government must uphold its commitment to implementing reforms.
Sources close to the PM had suggested that Wes Streeting was contemplating a leadership challenge after the upcoming Budget. However, the Health Secretary dismissed these claims, attributing them to efforts by the PM’s supporters to undermine his position.
During a visit to the Paddington Community Diagnostic Centre in Liverpool, Streeting downplayed the recent attacks against him, dismissing them as old news. He declined to comment on the future of Morgan McSweeney, who has faced criticism within the Labour Party over the fallout from the incident.
In response to an apology received from the PM, the Health Secretary redirected the conversation to the positive developments within the NHS, emphasizing the government’s efforts to drive change and improve healthcare services.
When asked directly about Morgan McSweeney, the Health Secretary redirected the discussion to the positive news about falling NHS waiting lists, suggesting that all concerned parties would be pleased with the progress.
