Multiple reports describe criticism of Prime Minister Keir Starmer and predictions that his leadership could change following the forthcoming by-election in Makerfield. The Daily Mail reports that former ministers and other senior figures point to the political impact of the result, arguing that even if Labour candidate Andy Burnham does not win the seat, there would still be pressure for a change at the top. It also cites comments attributed to Jess Phillips, who resigned from Starmer’s government earlier this month. Phillips is quoted saying that “even if Andy Burnham doesn’t win in Makerfield there will be a change of the Prime Minister.” The reports frame these remarks as part of broader resignations and speeches in which officials publicly challenge the government’s direction and leadership. No additional specifics are provided in the supplied excerpts regarding the exact mechanisms for any leadership change or the detailed contents of the resignation speeches beyond the general nature of the criticism.