Scottish Labour MSPs have expressed growing discontent over the party's centralised control from Westminster, with some calling for greater autonomy to tailor policies to Scottish needs. The rebellion comes as Keir Starmer steps down as prime minister, paving the way for Andy Burnham to take over.
Several Scottish Labour figures have privately voiced frustration that key decisions, including candidate selections and policy positions, are being dictated by London without sufficient input from Scottish members. This has led to tensions, particularly over issues like the two-child benefit cap and Brexit, where Scottish Labour's stance differs from the UK leadership.
One MSP, speaking anonymously, said: 'We are being treated as a branch office of Westminster, not as a distinct party with its own mandate. This is unsustainable and damaging to our electoral prospects in Scotland.' The rebellion threatens to undermine Burnham's leadership before it has fully begun, as he seeks to unite the party after Starmer's resignation.
Burnham, who was sworn in as MP for Makerfield today, has yet to comment directly on the Scottish Labour concerns. However, allies suggest he is aware of the need to address internal divisions and may offer greater devolution of powers to the Scottish party as part of his leadership pitch.
The situation echoes past tensions under previous leaders, but the timing is particularly sensitive as Labour prepares for a potential general election, with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage calling for a vote and questioning Burnham's mandate. Former home secretary Alan Johnson has urged Burnham to 'be brave' and call a general election to restore trust, a move that could either solidify his position or expose deeper fractures.
