Christian MP Rachael Maskell Suspended from Labour Over Welfare Bill Vote

Christian MP Rachael Maskell has been suspended from the Labour Party after voting against the party line on a controversial welfare reform bill.

The York Central MP, a committed Christian, was one of four Labour members — alongside Neil Duncan-Jordan, Brian Leishman, and Chris Hinchliff — to face suspension after defying the whip. The move came following their opposition to proposed changes affecting disability benefits.

In a heartfelt statement on Thursday, Maskell expressed her deep loyalty to the Labour Party and the convictions that led to her decision:

“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 in representing my constituents and ensuring that I advocate for them, keep them safe and ensure that their voices are taken into the very heart of politics.”

She emphasised that her actions stemmed from a desire to see the Labour government succeed, particularly in lifting those who are often marginalised. Her amendment to the bill sought to protect individuals with fluctuating health conditions, suggesting that those temporarily well should not be penalised with reduced benefits if they later relapse.

“I have stood up for disabled people,” she added, “as they too must find their place and have their voices heard… 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.”

Despite her suspension, Maskell is hopeful for reconciliation and said she had a “positive conversation” with the party’s chief whip, explaining her stance was rooted in both her political beliefs and Christian faith:

“He knows my heart and why I did what I did. I explained there are lines I can’t cross because of where I come from in politics with my faith.”

Her act of dissent triggered the largest rebellion under Starmer’s leadership to date, with 49 Labour MPs voting against the bill. Although the welfare reform still passed with a majority of 75, the rebellion compelled party leadership to scrap proposed changes to PIP (Personal Independence Payment) eligibility, a significant victory for Maskell and disability advocates.

Maskell, who once worked as a senior physiotherapist and trade union official for equality, said she is “not angry” over her suspension but “upset” for her party. She reiterated her core beliefs:

“The reason why I voted the way I did was because I believe in fighting for people.”

Her Labour membership now remains “under review”, while Maskell continues to advocate for those she believes the reforms would have harmed.