Labour MPs launch major rebellion to stop welfare bill

Amendment intended to kill off legislation that would cut benefits could be backed by up to 100 Labour MPs including senior figures

Labour MPs have launched a significant rebellion against the government's benefit cuts with an amendment that could kill its welfare bill, spearheaded by senior select committee chairs.

The amendment - which sources said could be signed by up to 100 MPs - declines to pass the government's welfare changes and calls for a pause, including for further consultation and for support to be in place before any further cuts are made.