France, May 11 -- In a speech delivered in London on Monday, Starmer doubled down on his ambition to place Britain "back at the heart of Europe", insisting closer ties with the EU were essential to reviving economic growth, improving living standards and restoring British influence abroad.

The Labour leader is battling mounting unrest within his own party following bruising election losses across England, Scotland and Wales last week.

Critics have urged him to announce a timetable for his departure, while allies insist replacing another prime minister mid-term would deepen political instability.

"I know I have my doubters and I know I need to prove them wrong, and I will," Starmer told party activists and MPs, pledging to confront the ...