Allies of the prime minister are making it clear he would fight any challenge to his leadership from Labour MPs, BBC reported.

There are fears from those loyal to Sir Keir Starmer that his job might be under immediate threat, perhaps as soon as shortly after the Budget in a fortnight's time.

Critics say it is evidence that Downing Street is "in full bunker mode" which "won't help the government out of the hole we're in."

Friends of Sir Keir are deeply worried about what they see as plotting going on to try to replace him and are seeking to make clear what they see as the grave risks of a leadership challenge, according to BBC.