Who could replace Keir Starmer?

Discontent over UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s decision to appoint Peter Mandelson – a friend of Jeffrey Epstein – as U.S. ambassador has members of the Labour Party contemplating a change of leader


Angela Rayner, 45
FORMER DEPUTY
PRIME MINISTER
Darling of Labour’s left, has led MP rebellion over Mandelson scandal, but her resignation over unpaid stamp duty may hurt leadership prospects

Wes Streeting, 43
HEALTH
SECRETARY
Long-held ambition to become Prime Minister hampered by position on Labour’s right and former close ties with Mandelson

Ed Miliband, 56
ENERGY SECRETARY
Former opposition leader (2010-15) enjoying second rise as energy secretary, pushing net zero policies popular with Labour left

Shabana Mahmood, 45
HOME SECRETARY
Hard line on immigration since taking job seen as attempt to take on Reform UK on likely key issue at next election, currently due in 2029

Andy Burnham, 56
GREATER MANCHESTER
MAYOR
Hugely popular with Labour MPs and voters, but must first win parliamentary seat to mount leadership bid

PROBABILITY OF BECOMING NEXT LABOUR LEADER*
Angela Rayner
Wes Streeting
Ed Miliband
Shabana Mahmood
Andy Burnham
8.6%
20.0%
11.1%
10.0%
10.0%

*Probability calculated by Oddschecker based on betting odds. Data collected on Feb 6, 2026

Sources: Bloomberg, Reuters, BBC
Pictures: Getty Images
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