Keir Starmer removes Labour whip from at least four ‘persistent rebel’ MPs
Guardian4 days
UK: Starmer Suspends Four Labour MPs Over Discipline Breaches
Above: U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer departs 10 Downing Street on July 16, 2025. Image copyright: Wiktor Szymanowicz/Anadolu/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
The MP suspensions were justified. No government can function with members constantly undermining it publicly. There's a difference between constructive criticism and persistent attacks that weaken leadership. These MPs crossed that line repeatedly, leaving no choice but disciplinary action. The move protects party unity while keeping the door open to future reconciliation.
Opposition narrative
These suspensions reinforce Starmer's tumbling popularity. To some, Starmer's actions are authoritarian cruelty: punishing MPs who opposed pushing disabled people into poverty. Meanwhile, others see weak leadership: when over 127 MPs publicly oppose a bill, scapegoating just seven does not send the appropriate message. From all sides, Starmer's authority and legitimacy is being slowly eroded.