Allies defend Streeting after reports of cabinet kerfuffle

Allies of Wes Streeting have called for unity within government after reports emerged that cabinet ministers are urging the prime minister to sack the health secretary. According to The Times, senior figures are pressing for Mr Streeting's removal, citing his "outspoken opinions" in public pronouncements.

- DAVID LYNCH

This internal pressure is understood to stem from a briefing war originating in Downing Street, targeting Mr Streeting over his perceived ambitions to succeed Sir Keir as PM.

A spokesperson for the health secretary described the timing of the latest briefing against him as "incredibly stupid", noting its emergence while Reform UK and the Conservatives vie for dominance on the political right.

The spokesperson said: “It’s a real shame that Keir’s so-called allies are briefing against Wes yet again, when they should be talking about the second biggest fall in waiting lists in 15 years, and ambulances arriving 15 minutes faster with Labour.