Labour ministers poised to resign' over benefit cuts

Starmer faces huge revolt as MPs rally against reforms

- MILLIE COOKE

Sir Keir Starmer is facing the biggest rebellion of his premiership as more than 150 MPs are preparing to vote against his forthcoming welfare cuts.

It is understood that there is growing upset among both parliamentary private secretaries (PPSs) and even government ministers, who are said to be considering quitting if the government doesn’t water down its proposals. It comes amid deep concern over the impact of the proposed changes, which will see personal independence payments cut for around 800,000 people.

One PPS told The Independent she is horrified by the direction of the government, claiming that the prime minister simply doesn’t care what his MPs think.

It comes after more than 100 MPs – understood to comprise primarily those who won their seats for the first time in 2024 – signed a letter to the chief whip warning that they are unable to support the proposals in their current form. It is understood that a separate letter signed by around 40 MPs was sent to Sir Keir just days earlier, warning against proceeding with the changes in their full form.