Labour MPs threatened with deselection over welfare bill rebellion

LocalPolitics
24 Jun 2025 • 12:28 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Labour MPs, including ministers, face threats of deselection or losing the whip if they vote against proposed welfare reforms next week.
  • The government aims to save £5 billion annually by reducing welfare spending, primarily through cuts to Personal Independence Payments (PIPs) for disabled individuals.
  • Approximately 80 Labour MPs, including 12 ministers, are considering rebelling against the legislation, with a crucial vote scheduled for 1 July.
  • Prime minister Keir Starmer has reiterated his commitment to the reforms, saying the current welfare system is ineffective and requires change, while refusing further concessions to potential rebels.
  • Some Labour MPs, such as Richard Burgon, are advocating for wealth taxes as an alternative to benefit cuts and plan to present a petition before the vote.

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