LONDON, The House of Commons has officially CANCELLED all scheduled votes for Friday, May 16, according to an internal parliamentary notice issued this afternoon. The move comes amid a week of intensified political maneuvering and shifting party dynamics following the recent local elections.
No official reason has been publicly given, but parliamentary sources suggest the cancellation is linked to internal Labour Party discussions on upcoming legislative priorities, including responses to the UK–India Free Trade Agreement and proposed changes to immigration rules.
Opposition members have criticised the sudden suspension of parliamentary business, accusing the government of attempting to delay scrutiny over recent policy decisions and the fallout from the Reform UK surge at the local level.
“This is highly irregular,” said one senior Conservative MP. “We are elected to vote, debate, and represent. Cancelling votes with 24 hours’ notice undermines the public trust.”
The cancellation also follows a heated Prime Minister’s Questions session on Wednesday, in which Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended his government’s handling of foreign investment laws and migration reforms.
House Whips have confirmed that MPs are still expected to attend scheduled committee meetings and constituency duties, but the Commons chamber will not be conducting any legislative votes.
Political analysts believe the move may signal behind-the-scenes turbulence as Labour attempts to maintain cohesion after recent controversies over party unity and rising pressure from Reform UK and Liberal Democrats in former strongholds.
No confirmation has been provided on whether votes will resume as normal next week, leaving open questions about the legislative timetable ahead of the summer recess.