UK Labour PM Keir Starmer faces revolt over tax promises, ethics, and reinstating rebel MPs ahead of key budget decision.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer faces rising internal pressure within the Labour Party, with reports of discussions to replace him amid declining poll ratings and concerns over breaking the party’s pledge not to raise income tax. Despite this, he has reinstated four rebel MPs—Neil Duncan-Jordan, Chris Hinchliff, Brian Leishman, and Rachael Maskell—who had their whip suspended for opposing welfare reforms affecting disability benefits. The MPs, including three newly elected, returned after talks with chief whip Jonathan Reynolds. Starmer also faces scrutiny over ethics issues, including Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy’s undisclosed donations and his own donor ties, while Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy is under fire for not addressing the release of a convicted sex offender. Deputy Leader Lucy Powell urged against tax increases ahead of the November 26 Budget, warning of eroded public trust, as Chancellor Rachel Reeves considers capping tax-free pension contributions at £2,000 annually.