Starmer defends suspending rebel MPs after backbench criticism

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Prime Minister Keir Starmer has defended suspending four Labour MPs for repeatedly defying the party whip, saying all MPs must uphold the party’s manifesto for change. The suspended MPs—Brian Leishman, Chris Hinchliff, Neil Duncan-Jordan, and Rachael Maskell—voted against welfare cuts and are now sitting as independents pending review. Starmer insisted discipline is necessary to deliver Labour’s agenda, despite criticism from backbenchers who argue the suspensions undermine party unity, Sky News has reported. Critics warn the move risks alienating voters and boosting support for the Reform Party, while others call for greater tolerance of dissent within Labour ranks.