UK health minister Streeting preparing to resign, Times says

Britain’s Health Secretary Wes Streeting is set to resign, potentially as early as Thursday, as he prepares a formal challenge for the party leadership. His meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer came just ahead of the King’s Speech.

REUTERS

May 13, 2026

UK health minister Streeting preparing to resign, Times says

British Health Secretary Wes Streeting walks on Downing Street, on the day of the State Opening of Parliament, in London, Britain, May 13, 2026.

Jaimi Joy / Reuters

LONDON – Britain’s Health Minister Wes Streeting is reportedly preparing to resign and could step down as early as Thursday, the Times reported on Wednesday. Streeting is also expected to mount a formal challenge for the party leadership.

The report said Streeting held a brief meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Wednesday ahead of the King’s Speech. Allies of Streeting indicated he was determined to proceed with the leadership challenge.

Discussions are reportedly underway to prepare nomination papers for lawmakers to back a potential leadership bid.

A spokesman for Streeting told the Times:

“Wes is the Health Secretary, he is proud of his record of falling waiting lists and a recovering NHS. He is not planning to say anything following his meeting with the Prime Minister that might distract from the King’s Speech.”

There was no immediate comment from Streeting’s office.

-Reporting by Muvija M and William James; Writing by Sam Tabahriti; Editing by Kate Holton/Reuters