In a challenge to Keir Starmer’s authority, a number of Labour MPs have indicated they are aiming to force a vote in favour of a Gaza ceasefire.
Imran Hussain, MP for Bradford East, said he was quitting his role as shadow minister for the new deal for working people to be able to “strongly advocate” for a ceasefire.
Backbenchers in Labour have launched an all-out assault on Keir Starmer’s anti-ceasefire stance in Gaza, suggesting a new method that could force additional shadow cabinet resignations.
The move risks splitting a fragile Labour Party, with speculation this morning that more shadow ministers may have to quit following Imran Hussain’s resignation late last night.
12 Labour MPs, plus Jeremy Corbyn, have backed the amendment, noting the House’s “regret” that the speech failed “include measures to ensure the Government upholds international humanitarian law and protect civilians in Israel and Palestine”.
The amendment continues, with 20 backers slamming Israel’s “total siege and bombardment of Gaza”.
“The urgent priority must be to stop civilian deaths and suffering; welcome the growing calls for a ceasefire, including the United Nations Secretary-General… and therefore call not he Government to urgently press all parties to agree to an immediate ceasefire”.
The amendment almost certainly wouldn’t pass, but if called by the speaker could put a number of senior Labour MPs in tricky positions.
14 shadow ministers have called for a ceasefire, in contradiction to the Labour Party’s official position.