Sky News host Beth Rigby issued a breaking announcement this evening after more than 50 Labour MPs called for Sir Keir Starmer to step down as the nation’s Prime Minister. As the breaking news banner flashed at the bottom of the screen, Rigby said the story was moving very quickly. “The breaking news is that a PPS has resigned from government - this is the most junior rank in government,” she added. Ministerial aide Tom Rutland was the person who resigned, writing in a statement: “It is with regret that I believe the Prime Minister should now set out a timetable for his departure and for a new leader to be chosen to lead the Labour Party and the country.

“I watched brilliant councillors lose their seats last week through no fault of their own. Time and time again, speaking with voters at their doors, I heard little dislike for local councillors nor for the Labour Party, but the animosity towards the Prime Minister was clear from every voter who was choosing to vote for another party or considering doing so.”

He also said: “I do not have faith that the Prime Minister can meet this challenge.”

Earlier today, Starmer said he would prove "doubters" wrong while acknowledging his government had made mistakes but "got the big political choices right.”

Since the update, three parliamentary aides have handed in their resignations, and the number of MPs calling for Starmer’s resignation is almost at 60.

Taking to X to air their thoughts on the Sky News alert, one person penned: “I do not see how he can survive this, or his cabinet now. It's only going to gang weight.”

A second said: “I think we need another General Election. Labour backbenchers aren’t just talking about changing the man at the top but their entire policy agenda- there is NO mandate from the British people for this. If Starmer goes, we should get our democratic rights respected.”

Another added: “What he should do now is call a general election.”

Meanwhile, a fourth added: “The party is breaking up thanks to Starmer, the party I was once proud of and supported, but never again will I vote Labour while he's in charge. I believe if they act now, there is a chance that all is not lost, it's time to make that bold decision with votes of no confidence.”

Despite the backlash, one person said: “The PM is going nowhere.” Someone else noted: “Out of 400.”