- Reports suggest energy secretary Ed Miliband has "ghosted" prime minister Sir Keir Starmer amid a dispute over defence spending cuts, though sources close to Miliband deny these claims as "completely untrue".
- The alleged rift follows Miliband reportedly being among the first cabinet members to urge Sir Keir to set a timetable for his departure after last month's disappointing local election results.
- Miliband is said to be close to Andy Burnham, a potential leadership rival, who is widely expected to win the Makerfield by-election this week and return to Parliament.
- Sir Keir Starmer has indicated he would offer Burnham a cabinet position if he wins, stating he wants him to "play a big part in the Labour government".
- The political tensions are heightened by Wes Streeting's suggestion he is prepared to trigger a Labour leadership contest as early as next week, urging Sir Keir to announce his departure timetable if Burnham secures the by-election victory.
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