Sir Keir Starmer replaces frontbenchers who resigned over ‘spy cops’ Bill with Wes Streeting and James Murray

Sir Keir Starmer has replaced two shadow ministers who quit in a rebellion over legislation to allow undercover agents to break the law.

Dan Carden and Margaret Greenwood both resigned in protest so they could vote against the so-called “spy cops” Bill, despite the Labour leader ordering his MPs to abstain.

Wes Streeting will replace Ms Greenwood as shadow schools minister and James Murray will replace Mr Carden as shadow financial secretary to the Treasury, Labour said.

Thirty-four Labour MPs defied Sir Keir to vote against the Covert Human Intelligence Sources (CHIS) Bill, including former leader Jeremy Corbyn and ex-shadow chancellor John McDonnell.

Mr Starmer faced a rebellion from members of his own party over the bill (AFP via Getty Images)

The Bill seeks to grant wide-ranging legal rights to undercover agents to commit crimes in the course of their work.

Liverpool Walton MP Mr Carden said he voted against it as a “matter of conscience”, saying the legislation sets “dangerous new precedents” on the rule of law and civil liberties, sentiments echoed by Wirral West MP Ms Greenwood.

Sir Keir appointed Abena Oppong-Asare to replace Mr Streeting in the role of shadow exchequer secretary, saying he was “delighted” to confirm their new roles.

“They are three of the brightest young talents in our movement and each will bring enthusiasm, ideas and experience,” the leader said.

“I am looking forward to working with them and their teams as we attempt to build the next Labour government.”