Prime Minister Keir Starmer told lawmakers in the House of Commons Wednesday that he never authorized the negative briefings against his potential rivals. House of Commons/UK Parliament/Press Association via AP London —

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was forced Wednesday to address reports that rivals in his Labour Party are plotting to replace him as leader, just two weeks ahead of a government budget announcement that could worsen his already dire poll ratings .

Several British news outlets quoted Starmer allies late Tuesday saying his job might be under immediate threat and singling out Wes Streeting, the health secretary, as a challenger whose “ambition” was being viewed with “particular suspicion.” Those same allies briefed that Starmer would fight any challenge to his

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