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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
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Editorial

The Guardian view on Labour’s difficult year: denial of hard choices is no longer an option

Keir Starmer on Loose Women, 18 December 2025
‘A more charismatic leader with a more developed plan for government might have fared better.’ Photograph: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock

The formula for stable government, according to Britain’s constitution, is a big parliamentary majority and divided opposition. Sir Keir Starmer’s predicament proves that those conditions are not sufficient.

The prime minister’s inability to convince voters that he has an agenda for national renewal, and the demoralising effect that has had on the Labour party, make a leadership challenge look plausible after local elections next May. Maybe sooner.

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