UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has told his supporters that he is ready to fight to retain his leadership of the Labour Party. He confirmed that he would take part in any leadership contest if one were to occur, according to a BBC report on Sunday. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy also stated that Starmer would join any such contest, noting that it would require signatures from 81 MPs to proceed.

The leadership question has intensified after Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham expressed interest in joining a potential leadership race. Starmer and his allies argue that a contest would create instability within both the party and the country. They emphasize that Starmer must fulfill the strong mandate he received two years ago.

Following poor results in recent local elections, calls for Starmer’s resignation have grown within the Labour Party. The outcome of the upcoming June 18 by-election in Makerfield is expected to influence his leadership position, with Burnham’s success seen as crucial for strengthening his standing within the party.