Labour MP Catherine West has issued a challenge to a Cabinet member to take action against Prime Minister Keir Starmer on live television, threatening to make a move herself if they do not act. West, who previously called on the Cabinet to select a new leader by Monday, put Cabinet members “on notice” on Saturday, stating that if they do not oust Starmer, she will step forward as a potential replacement.

West emphasized the need for senior women to come forward and lead the party through challenging times ahead. During a televised discussion with Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, West questioned why women were not stepping up, urging for a more diverse leadership approach to navigate the party through the upcoming years leading to the general election.

In response, Phillipson expressed her disagreement with West’s stance, affirming her support for Starmer and the party’s direction. Despite the internal dissent, Starmer remains determined to continue his leadership and pursue his vision for transforming the country over the next decade.

West highlighted the importance of modernizing the party and criticized its perceived outdated image, stating that she will await Starmer’s upcoming speech on Monday before making her final decision on whether to challenge his leadership. Phillipson, while acknowledging the concerns and frustrations within the party, expressed her support for Starmer and emphasized the need to focus on delivering a positive vision for the future.

The ongoing internal tensions within the Labour Party have garnered attention, with speculation surrounding potential leadership contenders such as Wes Streeting and Angela Rayner. West expressed surprise at the lack of action from these potential rivals, signaling a possible shift in the party dynamics in the coming days.