Signs are mounting that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer may announce a timetable for his resignation as early as Monday. The mood within the government has reportedly shifted significantly in the past 48 hours, with several insiders now anticipating an announcement regarding a plan to step down.

This potential shift comes amid steadily growing challenges for the prime minister. While Sir Keir Starmer has consistently maintained he would not walk away and would contest any leadership challenge, recent political realities appear to be influencing his position. Business Secretary Peter Kyle, speaking to the BBC, indicated that the prime minister would act in the best interests of the country, suggesting Sir Keir was reflecting on the difficulties he faces.

These challenges are not new, but a significant catalyst appears to be the outcome of the Makerfield by-election. Andy Burnham's decisive victory over Reform, a result that was not close, has been interpreted by some Labour MPs as a clear indicator of the party's struggles against Nigel Farage's movement. Burnham's success is seen by some as demonstrating a track record of effectively challenging Reform.

The implications of a potential resignation are significant for the Labour party. Dozens of Members of Parliament had already called for Sir Keir's departure, a number that has reportedly grown since Thursday. The private expressions of concern from senior cabinet ministers, including Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, who are reportedly still in their positions despite these private calls, are seen by some as highlighting a collapse in Sir Keir's authority.

If Sir Keir Starmer does resign, the focus will immediately turn to his successor. Andy Burnham is now widely considered the leading contender to become the UK's next prime minister. However, the question of whether there will be a contest for the leadership remains open. Wes Streeting, who had previously stated his intention to stand, now appears to be suggesting that discussions among potential candidates about the future direction of the party may be necessary.

Allies of Mr. Streeting are reportedly hinting that conversations about the future leadership are underway, with some indications that a deal could be struck among potential candidates. This suggests a potential move towards a more unified approach to selecting the next leader, rather than a contested election.

Labour MPs who believe Sir Keir is personally unpopular and is hindering the party's progress see the current situation as a critical juncture. The perception among some is that the leader, rather than the party itself, is the primary obstacle to electoral success.

The reported shift in the government's mood and the growing chorus of private dissent among ministers underscore the pressure on Sir Keir Starmer. The coming days are expected to be pivotal in determining the future leadership of the Labour party.