Overview

• Government abandons key welfare reforms after 49 Labour MPs rebel, triggering a U-turn on the two-child benefit cap and PIP changes
• Coventry South MP Zarah Sultana quits the Labour Party to co-lead a new party with Jeremy Corbyn, citing broken promises and deep policy rifts
• Jeremy Corbyn confirms ongoing discussions to form a formal left-wing alternative, marking his first foray into party building since his expulsion
• Recent polls show Labour slipping behind Nigel Farage’s Reform UK, underscoring a slump in Starmer’s personal popularity and voter confidence
• Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces intensified scrutiny after an emotional Commons moment and her role in driving the welfare bill that prompted the rebel revolt