Keir Starmer's planned welfare reforms faced significant opposition, with dozens of Labour MPs voting against the measures. This rebellion represents the largest backbench revolt during his leadership, prompting Starmer to make multiple U-turns on his legislation within a short span of time. Political scientist Professor Philip Cowley remarked that it surpasses previous rebellions, including a recent one over planning legislation. Previously, Labour MPs experienced drastic consequences, such as losing the party whip, during earlier revolts, notably regarding the two-child benefit cap.
Keir Starmer has suffered a serious blow after dozens of his own MPs voted against his planned welfare reforms in Parliament, marking the largest backbench rebellion of his premiership.
The prime minister was forced into two humiliating U-turns on the legislation in less than a week to head off a revolt that threatened to defeat his government.
Political scientist Professor Philip Cowley noted that this rebellion is the largest Starmer has faced, surpassing previous backbench rebellions on issues such as the planning and infrastructure bill.
The record for rebellion previously was held by the two-child benefit cap controversy, which resulted in Labour MPs, including John McDonnell, being stripped of the party whip.
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