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This 10-point plan would allow Keir Starmer to get a grip on his government. He should read it and fast

9 0
11.02.2026

After his worst week ever, could Keir Starmer be about to have a season of renewal? Quite possibly, if he learns from his near-death experience.

When most leaders stumble, they don’t get a second chance: they are too exposed and their rivals pounce. As the saying goes, in politics your enemies are all on your own side – the opposition are merely opponents. But this isn’t a late third-term government running out of road with a slim majority and no new ideas. It’s only about a year and half in, with a radical manifesto and a landslide majority. As prime minister, Starmer not only has breathing space but also the most untrammelled power of any democratic leader in the global north. Even Donald Trump has individual states to contend with – the UK is a unitary system. So here are 10 steps Starmer can take to stay in office.

1. Bring the current crisis to a close by publishing every single one of the emails and messages from Peter Mandelson to cabinet ministers, junior ministers and advisers. Look carefully for any attempts to influence government contracts. Take charge personally – this has to happen as soon as possible. And you need to decide quickly who will have to resign.

2. Closing this issue frees you to pursue one of the agendas you are most........

© The Guardian