Starmer suspends four MPs including two openly hostile to government Gaza policy

Keir Starmer has suspended four MPs over “persistent breaches of party discipline” with two of the parliamentarians known for their hostility to Labour’s policy around Israel and Gaza.

In an unexpected move, the MPs Brian Leishman, Neil Duncan-Jordan and Chris Hinchcliff and Rachael Maskell had the party whip removed after they voted against the government on issues including the winter fuel allowance and planning reform.

It is understood the suspensions are pending a future review into the MPs conduct.

Jewish News understands that both Maskell and Leishman’s frequent outbursts in relation to Gaza have also been taken into consideration, with claims that the female York MP was openly organising behind-the-scenes to defeat the government in an emergency debate on Gaza.

Both MPs also did not vote as parliament proscribed the Palestine Action group earlier this month.

In a further move, the MP Rosena Allin Khan, Bell Ribeiro-Addy and Mohammed Yasin were also removed as trade envoys. All three had been active rebels over the government’s welfare reforms.

The trio have all been vocal pro-Palestine campaigners.

Labour sources denied any of the suspensions were down to MPs engaging in conversation with Jeremy Corbyn or Zarah Sultana over joining their new left-wing party.

As rumours of the suspensions being announced emerged, one member of the PLP told Jewish News:”There’s a few coming up – that’s what I’ve heard.”

The action comes after backbenchers managed to water down plans to cut the UK’s massive disability benefit bill, but will be seen as an attempt by Starmer to restore authority and discipline amongst his MPs.