Sir Keir Starmer has dismissed talk of leadership challenges as “wasted” time, as he declined to reprimand Andy Burnham for fuelling coup speculation.

The Prime Minister evaded a question on a potential future bid to unseat him by the northern politician and instead praised Mr Burnham’s work as mayor of Greater Manchester.

Last week’s extraordinary Labour briefing war over suggestions Health Secretary Wes Streeting was plotting to mount a coup focused fresh attention on Sir Keir’s position.

It was reported that the attacks on Mr Streeting were a ploy to warn off potential leadership contenders, although Sir Keir has said he was assured they did not emanate from No 10.

Asked whether the briefing was helpful and what his message would be to allies considering making similar moves,

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