Only three Welsh MPs break ranks as Starmer faces biggest revolt to date

A MAJOR rebellion is erupting inside the Labour Party, with 108 MPs—including Welsh frontbencher Henry Tufnell—signing a motion to block controversial welfare cuts, in what has been described as the biggest internal revolt since Keir Starmer became leader.

The MPs have backed a reasoned amendment that would kill off the government’s new Welfare Reform Bill at its second reading, arguing the proposals would “strip support” from hundreds of thousands of disabled people and low-income claimants across the UK.

Among the signatories is Henry Tufnell, Labour MP for Mid and South Pembrokeshire, who currently serves on the Labour front bench as a Parliamentary Private Secretary in the Shadow International Development team.

Tufnell’s decision to break ranks has put him on a collision course with party whips and leadership figures, with Angela Rayner warning that Labour MPs who defy the official party line may face disciplinary consequences.

Risking his role

Sources inside Westminster suggest several Labour frontbenchers are now “considering their positions”, and may resign rather than vote against the amendment or abstain. Tufnell’s decision to sign the motion is likely to trigger calls for him to either resign his PPS role voluntarily or face the sack.

Speaking to The Herald, a party insider said: “It’s rare for a frontbencher to back a reasoned amendment against party policy. Tufnell will be under serious pressure to explain his decision—and potentially step down.”

The vote comes amid widespread concern over the government’s plan to cut £5 billion from welfare spending, including changes to Personal Independence Payments (PIP) and stricter Universal Credit assessments.

Welsh voices divided

Of the 27 Labour MPs representing Welsh constituencies, just three have signed the amendment, highlighting a cautious approach from most Welsh representatives. While their names have not all been confirmed publicly, only Tufnell holds a frontbench post among them.

The Welsh Government has previously criticised UK benefit reforms, but has stopped short of direct confrontation over the latest proposals.

One disability rights campaigner in Cardiff told The Herald: “It’s disappointing to see so few Welsh MPs take a stand. Tufnell should be applauded for putting principle above position.”

The stakes for Starmer

The rebellion is particularly damaging for Keir Starmer, who has tried to present Labour as a party of “discipline and government readiness.” With more than a quarter of his MPs now defying the whip, the amendment has become a litmus test for party unity.

The vote on the bill is expected later this week, and could see Labour leadership punish MPs who support the amendment—potentially withdrawing the whip or removing them from internal positions.

The party has not confirmed whether it will allow a free vote, abstain, or formally oppose the amendment—but the rebellion shows growing backbench unrest over Labour’s positioning on social justice issues.

Why this matters for Pembrokeshire

• If Tufnell is forced to resign, it may weaken local influence in Labour’s policy-making.
• Disability charities in Wales warn that cuts could disproportionately affect rural and coastal communities with fewer support services.
• The row highlights the gap between Labour’s leadership and its grassroots members, especially on issues of poverty and welfare.

Leo Candler walks and cycles 61 miles in one month for lifesaving charity

A DETERMINED seven-year-old from Pembrokeshire has raised hundreds of pounds for the RNLI after walking or cycling more than a mile every day throughout May.

Leo Candler took part in the RNLI’s Mayday Mile challenge, clocking up a total of 61 miles during the month. His efforts have already more than doubled his original fundraising target of £125, with donations currently standing at £286 — and still rising.

Inspired by his father’s role

Leo’s passion for the lifesaving charity is deeply rooted in family. His father, Scott, is both a Lifeguard Assessor Trainer and a volunteer crew member on the St Davids Lifeboat.

“Leo’s always been the RNLI’s number one fan,” said his mother, Simona Candler. “He’s grown up with the yellow wellies, supporting his dad on the beach, watching lifeboat launches, and visiting the RNLI College. He absolutely loves it.”

Some of Leo’s walks and rides took him to and from local lifeboat stations, and included visits to RNLI lifeguards at Whitesands Beach. He was often joined by his younger brother Zane, aged three, who is already following in his footsteps.

A mission that matters

“Even though Leo is only seven, he understands how important the RNLI’s work is — not just in the UK but around the world,” said Simona. “He knows his dad went to Bangladesh to help set up their lifeguard service, and he’s proud of that.”

She added: “It was amazing to see a boy his age so determined to get his miles in each day. We’re incredibly proud of both our boys.”

Leo’s fundraising campaign continues until the end of June. Donations can be made online by searching “RNLI – Leo Candler”.

Brave little fundraiser: Leo aboard St Davids Tamar Class Lifeboat (Pic: Herald)

Motorists and bus passengers across south Pembrokeshire are being advised to prepare for a series of road closures and transport changes as the Long Course Weekend returns to the region this weekend.

The popular endurance event, which draws thousands of athletes and spectators each year, will bring temporary disruptions to routes in and around Tenby on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th June as competitors take part in the Wales Sportive and Wales Marathon.

Saturday 28th June – Wales Sportive

On Saturday, the Wales Sportive cycle event will see several roads in the wider Tenby area closed or converted to one-way systems to ensure participant safety. While the A40, A477, and the A478 Narberth to Kilgetty routes remain unaffected and fully open, other roads will be subject to closures and diversions throughout the day.

Sunday 29th June – Wales Marathon

Further closures will be in place on Sunday during the Wales Marathon, affecting routes between Tenby and Pembroke. These will operate on a rolling basis between 9.30am and 4pm, with the aim of minimising disruption while maintaining safety for runners and spectators.

Up-to-date information on all road closures can be found on the event’s official website:
 https://community.lcwwales.com/road-closures

Special arrangements for carers and emergency access

Care professionals requiring access to clients in affected areas can obtain vehicle passes through their care organisation managers. More details are available at:
 https://community.lcwwales.com/road…/carers-information

In case of emergencies during the event, organisers can be contacted directly on 01437 765777.

Public transport disruptions

Local bus services will also be impacted by the weekend’s events, with changes in place on both Saturday and Sunday.

Friday 27th June

• All services will operate as normal.

Saturday 28th June

• 351 (Tenby-Kilgetty-Amroth-Pendine) – No service
• 381 (Haverfordwest-Narberth-Kilgetty-Saundersfoot-Tenby) – No service
• Tenby Coaster (Tenby-Saundersfoot) – No service
• 349 (Haverfordwest-Neyland-Pembroke Dock-Pembroke-Tenby) – Will not serve Pembroke to Tenby until after 1pm
• 356 (Milford Haven-Neyland-Pembroke Dock-Pembroke-Monkton) – No service to Pembroke Commons or Monkton until after 1pm
• 387/388 (Coastal Cruiser) – Service will not operate until after 11am

Sunday 29th June

• 387/388 (Coastal Cruiser) – No service
• Tenby Coaster (Tenby-Saundersfoot) – Will operate via the A4218 (Broadwell Hayes) instead of Marsh Road and Heywood Lane

Residents and visitors are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance and allow extra time for travel where necessary.