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Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will be quizzed in Parliament today with his leadership in crisis and allies trying to protect him.

But some of his backbenchers could be absent as they are set to stage a boycott in protest against the briefings.

A Labour MP said: "Some Labour MPs are planning on boycotting PMQs today in protest at the briefing. If the PM thinks we are feral and too stupid to understand economics, then why on earth would we go out and cheer him on?"

Downing Street has launched a desperate bid to protect the Prime Miniser because aides fear Labour MPs will attempt to remove him after the Budget, later this month, or next May's local elections. They have suggested Health Secretary Wes Streeting is plotting to replace Sir Keir - which Mr Streeting denies.

But their efforts may have backfired, as they have encouraged speculation that Sir Keir may be forced to quit.

Number 10 is arguing that a leadership battle would hurt the economy and damage the UK's relationships with allies abroad.

There was more bad news for the Government this week when shock figures revealed four million people are claiming benefits without having to look for work, and this could come up at PMQs today.

Other topics that might be raised include the ongoing crisis at the BBC, the prospect of a review of the decision to refuse compensation to "WASPI" women affected by state pension age increases, and the revelation that more than 90 prisoners have been freed by mistake since April.

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