Rebel MPs hit back at Starmer after suspension threat over benefits cuts vote

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer speaks to the media at the G7 summit, in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada, June 16, 2025. REUTERS/Suzanne Plunkett/Pool - (Reuters)

• Labour MPs are preparing for a significant rebellion against Sir Keir Starmer's proposed £5bn benefit cuts, which include changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) affecting up to 800,000 people.
• Party whips have warned backbenchers who vote against or abstain on the measures face severe consequences, including potential suspension or being blacklisted from future government roles.
• Despite threats, around 50 Labour MPs are expected to vote against the bill, with many more planning to abstain, viewing the proposed cuts as "unprecedented" and "authoritarian."
• Charities like Sense and Mind have strongly criticised the reforms, warning they will push disabled people further into poverty and hardship, calling the cuts "horrendous" and "harmful."
• Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall defended the reforms, stating they are crucial for the social security system's sustainability and represent a "new social contract."

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Labour rebels say ‘you can’t suspend us all’ as they hit back at threats over benefits cuts vote