UK parties brace for fresh defections

Ben STANSALL / AFP

The UK's two main political parties are braced for fresh defections to a new Independent Group of MPs.

A total of 11 MPs have so far joined the Independent Group - eight from opposition Labour, and three from the governing Conservatives.

The Independent Group is not yet a political party, but says it wants to occupy the "centre ground".

It's rumoured several MPs from Labour and the Conservatives are close to quitting over issues including Brexit and their own current parties' leaderships.

But Chancellor Philip Hammond says he hopes the move by defecting Conservatives won't be permanent.

More from International

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • Nights on Dubai Eye 103.8

    11:00pm - 6:00am

    Dubai Eye complements the conversation with the music you love from the eighties, nineties and newer.

  • The Business Breakfast

    6:00am - 10:00am

    The Business Breakfast is the day’s must listen for the UAE’s business leaders, and those who aspire to be.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Is There Sufficient House Supply In UAE

    Dubai’s current population is more than double compared to almost twenty years ago, which now stands at 3.7 million. Lots of families are also moving to the UAE now. So what does it mean for the property market?

  • Noon's First Female Delivery Driver

    Glory Ehirim Nkiruka is Noon’s first ever female delivery driver. In her first ever interview, she explained why she loves her job, despite the heat!