US president Donald Trump has said Keir Starmer "will resign" after "failing badly" on immigration and energy.
Trump has weighed in as speculation mounts over the Prime Minister's future.
The Prime Minister has repeatedly vowed not to walk away from his post, even as public talk of a leadership contest or handing power to Andy Burnham has gained pace among Labour figures since he won the Makerfield by-election on Friday.
The number of Labour MPs calling for Starmer to go has since topped 100 – just under a quarter of the party’s MPs – and includes some who signed a letter warning against a leadership contest just last month.
Labour grandees have also spoken out, with former home secretary Alan Johnson saying Starmer should step aside and Lord Falconer saying he has “no authority” because it is assumed he will be replaced.
It has been widely reported Starmer could now resign as early as Monday.
Trump has posted on Truth Social saying: "Keir Starmer will resign as Prime Minister of The United Kingdom. He failed badly on two very important subjects- IMMIGRATION AND ENERGY (OPEN NORTH SEA OIL!). I wish him well! President DJT."
Trump's relationship with Starmer has deteriorated in recent months since Starmer voiced disagreement with US-Israel strikes on Iran.
The position of Downing Street continues to be that Starmer will fight any leadership challenge that comes his way, but it has been reported by the Observer he is thinking of announcing his resignation as Labour leader imminently.
Asked about reports, Starmer is planning to announce his resignation, Business Secretary Peter Kyle told Sky News’ Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips: “I have nothing to believe that they are true. I’m seeing a lot of speculation out there."
Kyle said, however, Starmer is reflecting on the “political realities” he now faces and did not shut down reports his boss could quit.
Asked if it was time for Starmer to relinquish office, he said: “I had a very frank conversation with the Prime Minister about all these issues and much more on Friday.
“My priority when I think what my role is in putting the country first is to uphold the authority of this government, to make sure that we can govern through a moment of political challenge, and that we are 100% focused on delivering.”
