Streeting quits as health secretary at 'critical time' for NHS

James Manning/PA Wire

By Erin Dean

Wes Streeting has resigned as health secretary at a “critical time” for the NHS, doctors’ leaders have warned.

Streeting quit on Thursday after days of mounting speculation, calling for a leadership challenge against Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.

Health experts said Streeting’s almost two years in post had been “eventful” – and that the change could have a significant impact on his NHS reorganisation plans.

The British Medical Association pointed out that the next health secretary will have to deal with “all major groups” of doctors in England being in dispute with the government.

This includes the long running resident doctor strikes over pay and jobs.

Streeting’s resignation follows days of turmoil in which calls have mounted for the Prime Minister to step down in the wake of Labour’s election mauling last week.

'Drift' at the top of government

In his resignation letter, Streeting criticised the “drift” at the top of government and told the Prime Minister it is “clear” he will not lead Labour into the next election.