LONDON – UK Prime Minister and Labour Party leader Keir Starmer has suspended four Labour MPs after they defied party lines and voted against proposed welfare reforms. The expelled lawmakers—Rachael Maskell, Neil Duncan-Jordan, Brian Leishman, and Chris Hinchliff—opposed the government’s controversial bill targeting changes in disability and sickness benefits.
The rebellion comes amid growing tension within the Labour Party over the direction of welfare policy, especially after Starmer made concessions on the original proposals. Despite the adjustments, the four MPs continued to vote against the revised bill, prompting the leadership to act swiftly.
In addition to the expulsions, three other MPs—Rosena Allin-Khan, Bell Ribeiro-Addy, and Mohammad Yasin—were removed from trade envoy roles for also defying the party whip.
Critics within the party have labelled the move “heavy-handed” and fear it could deepen internal rifts. Left-leaning members argue that punishing MPs for standing up for vulnerable citizens is politically damaging and undermines Labour’s identity as a party for social justice.
The suspended MPs have defended their stance, saying they voted in line with their conscience and their constituents’ interests. Some called for a more inclusive approach to policymaking, stressing the need for policies that protect the rights of disabled and low-income individuals.
This disciplinary action marks the latest instance of internal conflict within Labour, following a previous wave of suspensions last year over a separate benefits-related vote. As the party gears up for more legislative battles, questions remain about unity and leadership direction under Starmer.
