New Delhi, May 19 -- Wes Streeting's ambition to head the British government was one of the worst-kept secrets in U.K. politics.

But if anyone was unaware, it's now official - the former health secretary announced on Saturday his intention to oust Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

"We need a proper contest with the best candidates on the field, and I'll be standing," Streeting said.

Streeting is the first member of Parliament to say he will take on Starmer in what is likely to be a bruising internal contest for the reins of the Labour Party, which has seen its fortunes fall in the two years since its historic landslide victory swept out Conservatives after 14 years in power.

Streeting is likely to face other challengers, including Greater ...