Signs are mounting that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer could announce a plan to resign as early as Monday, with a noticeable shift in the government's mood over the past 48 hours. While Starmer has consistently stated his intention to remain and contest any leadership challenge, internal sentiment appears to be changing.

This potential shift comes amid growing challenges for the prime minister, with many Labour MPs believing that Starmer himself is personally unpopular and is hindering the party's progress. The recent Makerfield by-election result, where Andy Burnham secured a decisive victory over Reform, is seen by some as a critical turning point. Burnham's success offers a potential leadership contender who has demonstrated an ability to challenge the Reform party effectively.

Several influential figures within the government have privately expressed their views on the prime minister's position. Reports indicate that senior cabinet ministers, including Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, and Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, have urged Starmer to resign. Their continued presence in their ministerial roles, despite these private discussions, is being interpreted as a sign of Starmer's diminishing authority.

Business Secretary Peter Kyle acknowledged the developing situation, telling the BBC that the prime minister would act in the country's best interests. He also indicated that Starmer was currently reflecting on the challenges and political realities he faces. The implications of a potential resignation could be significant, leading to a race for leadership within the party.

Dozens of MPs had already voiced their desire for Starmer's resignation prior to the Makerfield by-election, a sentiment that has reportedly grown since Thursday. The outcome of this by-election, where Burnham's victory was substantial, has amplified concerns among those who believe the party needs a change at the top to effectively challenge opposition parties like Reform.

If Starmer does step down, the question of succession becomes paramount. Wes Streeting, a former health secretary, had previously indicated his intention to run for leadership. However, his allies are now suggesting that discussions among potential candidates are necessary to determine the future direction of the party, hinting at the possibility of a pre-arranged deal.

The political landscape has been characterized by leadership uncertainty, which a former top civil servant warned is "enormously disruptive." The focus on the individual at the top, rather than the party machinery, suggests a deep-seated concern about the current leadership's ability to connect with the electorate and secure electoral success.

While allies of Streeting maintain their position for now, there are indications that a consensus could be sought among prospective leaders. This period of introspection and potential transition within the Labour party comes at a critical juncture, with significant implications for the UK's political future.