Starmer faces potential probe for influencing Speaker to change rules

Allegations of coercion

Keir Starmer may be facing a parliamentary investigation over claims that he pressured Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle into altering constitutional rules to help Labour avoid a rebellion on a crucial Gaza vote.

Parliamentary crisis

Last week, Sir Lindsay made the controversial decision to rearrange the order of votes on a ceasefire motion after private discussions with Starmer and Labour's chief whip Alan Campbell.

Call for investigation

Members of the Tories, SNP, and Plaid Cymru have raised concerns and sent a letter to Sir Lindsay, suggesting that Starmer might have coerced the Speaker to prevent a rebellion by his own MPs.

Privileges committee involvement

The letter calls for the privileges committee of MPs to investigate the events leading up to the decision and determine if it constitutes a "contempt" of parliament. If improper pressure is found, disciplinary actions such as suspension or expulsion from parliament could be recommended.

Significant implications

If a probe is initiated and Starmer is found to have influenced the Speaker, it could have severe repercussions for Labour and impact their election prospects.

Speaker's response

Sir Lindsay's office has refrained from commenting on the matter, while Labour maintains that they have not engaged in any misconduct.