A British politician has been suspended from the Labour Party by Sir Keir Starmer.
Rachael Maskell — along with Neil Duncan-Jordan, Brian Leishman, and Chris Hinchliff — had her party membership temporarily revoked after voting against the government on the controversial welfare bill.
On Wednesday, Ms. Maskell said she had a “positive conversation” with the party’s chief whip, during which she stated: “There are lines I can’t cross because of where I come from in politics with my faith.”
In light of Maskell’s rebellion and impassioned pleas to the government, Starmer ultimately scrapped proposed changes to PIP (Personal Independence Payment) eligibility. The welfare reform bill then passed with a majority of 75, but—largely thanks to Maskell—resulted in the largest rebellion of Starmer’s premiership, with 49 Labour MPs voting against it.
Ms. Maskell describes herself as “Labour to the core” and says she is simply standing for the principles that led her into politics.
She said she is “not angry,” but “upset” for the party, telling the press: “The reason why I voted the way I did was because I believe in fighting for people.”
She released the following statement Thursday morning:
“As a Labour Party member for over 34 years, I could not be more committed to the Party—one that upholds the values of equality and justice. As someone of deep conviction and faith, I bring these values with me in all I do—representing my constituents, ensuring that I advocate for them, keep them safe, and make sure their voices are taken into the very heart of politics.
“In coming from a good place, I want this Labour Government to be the very best ever, as my community deserves every opportunity. I recognize how the world is tearing itself apart and how we inherited an economy in tatters and public services on their knees from the Tories, whose self-interest failed so many. We must, therefore, be able to debate how we rebuild our country—so all can take pride in what they do, where they live, and who they are. This is why I have stood up for disabled people: they too must find their place and have their voices heard. I’ve used every opportunity to reach into government to be their advocate.
“Having fought for disabled people all my life—first as a senior physical therapist, then as a national trade union official for equalities, and now as an MP—I know that they are often left out of the conversation. But I am heartened that Labour is now committed to ensuring that disabled people are included.
“I am, of course, saddened by the decision to suspend me for simply seeking the very best for others. I want to build a bridge with the Party, the Prime Minister, and the Government.”
The welfare reform bill originally aimed to limit who could claim Personal Independence Payments (PIP) for disabilities. Maskell tabled an amendment targeting those with fluctuating health conditions, arguing that if someone experienced a period of good health but later had to reclaim PIP, they should receive the current rate of Universal Credit rather than the lower rate the welfare reforms would assign to new claimants.
Her party membership remains “under review.”