Keir Starmer accused of losing control of his party after failing to suspend sleaze vote rebels

Sir Keir Starmer has faced criticism for failing to suspend more than a dozen Labour MPs who rebelled by supporting an investigation into Prime Minister Peter Mandelson’s alleged misleading of parliament over a security vetting scandal. Despite ordering his party to vote against the inquiry, 15 Labour MPs, mainly from the left-wing Socialist Campaign Group, defied the whip and backed the probe. The lack of disciplinary action against these rebels has raised questions about Starmer’s control over his party, with some senior Labour figures suggesting he is in a weakened position. The rebellion comes amid broader concerns about Starmer’s leadership, highlighted by his reluctance to publicly back Chancellor Rachel Reeves at Prime Minister’s Questions amid rumors of an imminent cabinet reshuffle. Some Labour MPs believe Starmer is avoiding punitive measures to prevent prolonging negative media attention on the Mandelson affair. This contrasts with previous instances when Starmer suspended MPs for defying party discipline, such as during welfare reform debates. Critics argue that his current inaction signals a loss of authority and control within the parliamentary party. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch seized on the turmoil during Prime Minister’s Questions, accusing Starmer of being “not in control” and highlighting alleged broken promises on taxes and welfare policy. She also referenced reports of Starmer’s frustration in the Commons, portraying a leader struggling to maintain order and direction. Starmer’s difficulties echo past challenges, including a forced concession on welfare cuts last year after facing internal rebellion, which underscored ongoing tensions within Labour ranks. The unfolding situation has intensified speculation about Starmer’s future leadership and the party’s unity ahead of upcoming political battles. While some insiders suggest disciplinary action against the rebels may be delayed until summer to avoid exacerbating the scandal, the episode underscores the challenges Starmer faces in consolidating his authority and managing dissent within his party.