Starmer urged Cabinet to form a 'praetorian guard' after policy U-turns

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander reportedly urged ministers to rally around Keir Starmer at an emotional Cabinet meeting, and deputy leader Lucy Powell warned against holding leadership talks.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander reportedly urged the Cabinet to form a 'praetorian guard' around Keir Starmer at an emotional meeting this week. The appeal followed two major policy U-turns and persistently low polling for the prime minister. She is said to have asked ministers to put aside personal ambitions. Deputy leader Lucy Powell warned that it would be 'madness' to start conversations about changing leaders. What is reported: - Heidi Alexander is said to have urged ministers to form a 'praetorian guard' around the prime minister. - A source described the Cabinet discussion as "very emotional" and forthright. - Sir Keir has recorded two major U-turns, including making proposed digital ID cards voluntary. - Lucy Powell said it would be 'madness' to discuss changing leaders, and Rachel Reeves said there was 'no credible alternative' as prime minister. Summary: The reports indicate senior figures urged unity and protection of the prime minister amid a difficult start to 2026. The May local elections are being framed as a key moment for the party's direction.