Worthing MPs call on Keir Starmer to set leadership timetable

Both Labour MPs representing Worthing constituencies have called on Prime Minister Keir Starmer to set out a timetable for a leadership transition following Labour’s performance in last week’s local elections.

East Worthing and Shoreham MP Tom Rutland said he believed Sir Keir had lost authority within both the Parliamentary Labour Party and the country, making it harder for the government to deliver the change voters expected after the general election.

Mr Rutland said he had heard frustration from voters on the doorstep during the local election campaign, despite positive views towards local Labour councillors.

He also confirmed he had resigned from his role as Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and would continue serving as a backbench MP.

Dr Beccy Cooper, MP for Worthing West, has also stated her position, saying the Prime Minister’s speech had not eased concerns she had heard from residents.

In a statement, Dr Cooper said she had listened to the Prime Minister’s speech and that it “did not assuage the concerns” she had heard on Worthing West doorsteps.

She said the government would need “a bold direction” to address the cost of living crisis and build better lives for all, while also acknowledging that there was currently an international crisis which the Prime Minister had to deal with.

Dr Cooper said: “I am therefore calling for him to set out a timetable for an orderly transition to a new leadership team, to be completed by the end of this year.”

She added that she thanked Sir Keir for his service to the party and the country, and said the role of Prime Minister was “incredibly difficult”.

The comments came after Labour lost control of Worthing Borough Council, while retaining control of Adur District Council. Discussions are now underway between political groups after no party secured an overall majority in Worthing.