Wes Streeting says Labour must ‘change course’ or hand Reform victory

Wes Streeting said the Government is losing the fight against nationalism (James Manning/PA)

Wes Streeting has warned that unless the Labour Government changes course“we risk handing the keys of No 10 to Reform”.

He delivered his resignation speech in the Commons on Wednesday after quitting as health secretary last week, calling on the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to step down.

Mr Streeting said: “I left the Government because we are in the fight of our lives against nationalism, and it is a fight that we are currently losing.

“Unless we change course, we risk handing the keys of No 10 to Reform, and I do not want that on our consciences.”

Sir Keir Starmer has said he is ‘focused on the job’ of governing amid the Labour leadership turmoil (James Manning/PA)

“For the first time in our history, nationalists are in power in every corner of the United Kingdom.

“Scottish and Welsh nationalism represents an existential threat to the future integrity of the United Kingdom.

“And Reform UK represent a threat to the values and ideals that have made this country great.” 

He also told MPs he does not believe Labour has “time to waste in Government treading water”, but added: “The Labour Party was elected to deliver real change. We still can.”

Mr Streeting’s criticism adds pressure on Mr Starmer's premiership, which looks set to be challenged by Andy Burnham if he is successful in his bid to return to Westminster.

The Greater Manchester mayor has been confirmed as Labour’s candidate for the upcoming Makerfield by-election.

Mr Streeting has made clear he intends to stand in any leadership contest.

But the Prime Minister has insisted he will not “walk away” from Downing Street.