The Sunday Telegraph exposes backbench plot to topple PM Starmer

Angela Rayner, the former deputy prime minister and housing secretary, is reportedly laying the groundwork for a potential leadership bid against Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.

Sources told The Telegraph that Rayner is already offering Cabinet roles to MPs in exchange for support and is actively “getting her ducks in a row” for a possible leadership challenge, with backing expected from unions.

Rayner has recently joined Tribune, a soft-left pressure group of Labour MPs, which currently has 70 members and is on course to reach 100, making it the largest caucus of Labour backbenchers. Allies of Rayner believe the platform could be used as a leadership vehicle in the future, positioning her as a strong contender compared to rivals such as Health Secretary Wes Streeting.

Rayner resigned from her Cabinet roles in September after it was revealed she had not paid £40,000 in stamp duty on a flat in Hove, East Sussex. Despite this, supporters see her as poised for a political comeback, particularly if an early leadership contest arises — a scenario believed to favour Rayner over figures like Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester.

The Labour Party has been facing heightened internal turbulence. Last week, Downing Street’s attempt to neutralise perceived leadership threats backfired, while confusion over Rachel Reeves’ stance on income tax further unsettled MPs and markets. Clive Lewis, Labour MP for Norwich South, openly called for Starmer to step down, describing the current situation as “not tenable.” Despite the remarks, Lewis retained the party whip.

Backbenchers and ministers alike expressed concern over party unity and direction. One MP described the leadership as being in “complete disarray,” while another noted that many MPs are anxious about their seats and the government’s future, fueling speculation about a leadership election. A Cabinet source warned of “volatility at the moment,” emphasising the need for unity ahead of a potentially turbulent election period next May.

Labour insiders say Starmer’s credibility has been damaged by a briefing war over alleged coup plotters, further amplifying uncertainty within the party.

By Khagan Isayev