Wes Streeting reveals when he will trigger his Labour leadership bid

The Independent emphasizes on-the-ground journalism across issues including reproductive rights, climate change, and Big Tech. It highlights investigations into political and financial matters and documentary work focused on American women fighting for reproductive rights. The outlet says it separates facts from messaging and relies on donations to keep sending journalists to speak to multiple sides. It claims broad trust across the political spectrum and states it does not use paywalls, arguing quality journalism should be accessible to everyone. Separately, Wes Streeting outlines policy pledges including full restoration of Sure Start funded by a wealth tax. He says he would delay any formal Labour leadership challenge until after Andy Burnham contests the Makerfield by-election, to avoid accusations of acting prematurely.

"The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story."

"The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it. Your support makes all the difference."

"Wes Streeting has unveiled his initial policy pledges, including the full restoration of Sure Start, which would be funded by a wealth tax. He also said he would delay any formal Labour leadership challenge until after Andy Burnham fought the Makerfield by-election. The Ilford North MP said he would be accused of "trying to pull a fast one" if he were to trigger a contest before Mr Burnham had the chance to re-enter Parliament."

"Speaking to the Mirror, Mr Streeting, who is not yet ready to formally launch a bid to unseat Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, explained his reasoning. This would allow Mr Burnham the opportunity to contest the Makerfield by-election. Mr Burnham currently serves as the Mayor of Greater Manchester and is a former MP for Leigh. Like Mr Streeting, he also previously held the position of health secretary. He launched his by-election campaign on Friday, when he said: A vote for me in this by-election is a vote to change Labour."

Read at www.independent.co.uk