Timeline: The potential challengers to Keir Starmer (May 2026)

With question marks and concerns hanging over the three main contenders, some Labour MPs have discussed the possibility that an unexpected candidate could emerge.

Some Labour MPs have discussed former leader Ed Miliband making a return to leadership.

Angela Rayner, who rose from care work to political leadership, resigned as deputy prime minister in 2025 after admitting underpayment of tax on a home purchase and is awaiting the result of an HMRC investigation, which could complicate any immediate leadership campaign.

Andy Burnham has strong support among Labour MPs and voters but is not currently an MP. He previously served as Greater Manchester mayor and has tried to stand for Labour in national elections; he did apply to be Labour's candidate in the Gorton and Denton by-election earlier this year but was blocked by Sir Keir's allies on Labour's ruling body.

Wes Streeting, Labour's health secretary since 2024, is described as the cabinet's best communicator. He has leadership ambitions and enjoys support from MPs in the centre and right, though his potential status as a 'right-wing' candidate could alienate many party members on the left.

On Tuesday, the prime minister told the cabinet he would 'get on with governing' and that a leadership contest had not been triggered.

Under party rules, there is nothing to stop Sir Keir Starmer from standing in a leadership race, and on Monday he told journalists he would do exactly that if a contest emerged.