Ex-commando Al Carns ‘keeping options open’ for challenge to Keir Starmer – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
London – Pressure is building inside the Labour Party for a relatively new MP with a distinguished military record to enter the growing debate over who should lead the party next. Al Carns, the minister for the armed forces, has drawn quiet encouragement from colleagues who believe the government needs a sharper break from its current direction to regain ground lost to Reform UK and other parties in recent local elections.
Why Supporters See Him as a Fresh Option
Carns entered Parliament only last year as the member for Birmingham Selly Oak. Before that he served as a special forces commander, completing five tours in Afghanistan and receiving the Military Cross for gallantry. Backers argue that his combination of frontline experience and a working-class upbringing gives him a story that resonates beyond traditional Westminster circles. They point to his appeal across different wings of the party. One ally noted that Carns draws support from MPs elected in 2024 and from those representing areas where Reform UK has made inroads. His links with former deputy leader Angela Rayner, forged through shared experiences of growing up in deprived communities, are also seen as an asset in broadening his base.
Timing and the Wider Leadership Picture
The push comes at a moment of clear strain for Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has stepped down, while Andy Burnham has signalled plans to return to Parliament and mount a challenge. More than ninety Labour MPs have publicly called for Starmer to set out a timetable for his departure. Although no formal contest has been declared, the possibility now appears more realistic than at any point in Starmer’s premiership. Carns’ supporters insist any race should include voices beyond the most prominent names already mentioned. They describe him as keeping his options open while testing the level of backing available.
His Message and Distinct Style
Carns has focused on resilience as a central theme, framing it not only in defence terms but as a practical goal of helping people feel financially secure enough to enjoy their lives. In a recent article for the New Statesman he argued that too many hard-working people still feel they are falling behind. This approach has set him apart from most ministers, who usually confine themselves to departmental talking points. Instead Carns has posted images of military operations and sunsets while largely avoiding direct comment on the party’s internal difficulties. Some colleagues have questioned whether such visibility is appropriate during a period of acute pressure on the prime minister.
Reactions Across the Party
Not everyone is convinced. Some MPs say any additional candidate should be a woman, while others argue Carns has yet to set out a detailed policy platform. Within the armed forces, one serving officer suggested he is not universally popular and has been quick to highlight his military background. Calvin Bailey, another Labour MP with military experience, offered a different view. He described Carns as one of the most decorated officers to enter politics and said his journey from an austere upbringing through the services represents a classic Labour story.
Key points emerging from the discussion:
- Carns is viewed by some as a bridge between traditional Labour voters and those drawn to Reform UK.
- His military record and personal background are cited as strengths by supporters.
- Sceptics question whether he has a sufficiently developed policy agenda.
- Any leadership contest remains hypothetical but is now considered more likely than before.
Whether Carns decides to stand or instead seeks a senior role under a different leader, his profile has already added a new dimension to the conversation about Labour’s future direction.
