Sir Keir Starmer is expected to use plans for closer ties with the European Union as part of an attempt to stave off a leadership challenge in the wake of Thursday’s local elections , which are expected to be disastrous for Labour . The prime minister is reportedly planning to deliver a speech in the days after the results, which will include a commitment to closer ties with the bloc in a bid to tackle the cost of living crisis caused by the Iran war. According to The Times , Sir Keir will make the case that the conflict has demonstrated Britain “cannot afford to ignore” the benefits of closer relations with Brussels, while emphasising that his red lines on no return to freedom of movement or the single market remain in place. A No 10 source said: “Building a closer relationship with the EU is crucial not just for economic growth, but also cutting the cost of living.…