London: Rosie Duffield, the MP for Canterbury, has resigned from the Labour Party, citing disagreement with Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s leadership and abuse of power. Duffield, who has represented Canterbury since 2017, will now serve as an independent member.
Duffield accused Starmer of prioritising power and control over meaningful change, criticising his acceptance of gifts worth £16,000 from Lord Alli. She argued that government decisions under Starmer, such as cutting winter fuel payments for pensioners, were anti-public and exploitative.
She also highlighted her disappointment over Starmer’s stance on women’s rights and accused him of hypocrisy, accepting lavish gifts while implementing harsh policies.
With Duffield’s departure, the number of independent MPs has risen to 14. This resignation follows the suspension of seven Labour MPs earlier this year for opposing party directives, highlighting rising discontent within the Labour ranks since Starmer’s leadership began.
Duffield’s criticism adds to the ongoing scandal involving Starmer and Cabinet members accepting luxury gifts from donors, including clothing and other expensive perks. She condemned Starmer for focusing on personal gain over public welfare, describing his leadership as self-serving.
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