Best of the Spectator Quite right!: Who could replace Keir Starmer? – Q&A
Nov 17, 2025
Could Britain see a snap election before 2029? Discover why it's unlikely, despite the chaos. Tensions within Labour are rising, especially around Keir Starmer's leadership and Angela Rayner's potential as a successor. The hosts debate the impracticality of abolishing the Scottish Parliament and explore the challenges of devolution. For a fun twist, they discuss which Labour MP would make the best travel buddy. Get ready for an insightful mix of politics and light-hearted banter!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Early Election Remains Unlikely
- A general election before 2029 is possible but unlikely while Labour commands a Commons majority.
- Michael Gove argues Labour MPs won't risk an election despite discontent with Keir Starmer.
Parliamentary System Trumps Leader Popularity
- UK politics is parliamentary not presidential, so leaders can be replaced without elections.
- Madeline Grant warns British voters often misunderstand this because of US-style personality politics.
Fixed-Term Act Caused Brexit Gridlock
- Gove recounts the Fixed-term Parliaments Act issues during Theresa May's attempts to pass a Brexit deal.
- He describes how Parliament was manoeuvred into voting for a general election that Boris Johnson used to secure a majority.