Downing Street officials are confident that Anas Sarwar’s call for Keir Starmer to step down was not part of a planned conspiracy. Sources say Sarwar acted on his own after weighing the decision for several weeks.

In Scotland, opinions within the Labour Party are divided. While some insiders believe a challenge to the leadership is still possible, others worry the move was a dangerous mistake that came at the wrong time. Meanwhile, Downing Street is keeping a close watch on political developments in Wales and has been working to smooth over tensions with Scottish MPs.