Sources with connections to the Progressive Labour Party expressed disappointment after rebel Opposition MPs, Wayne Furbert and Walton Brown, had their posts on the Boundaries Commission revoked at the behest of the Leader of the Opposition.

Government House announced yesterday that Michael Scott and Jamahl Simmons had been nominated in their place. Both the MPs removed from the commission are linked to recent challenges within the party against Marc Bean’s leadership.

In response, Mr Brown said: “This is a decision by PLP Leader Mr Bean, which is fully within his remit. Any rationale he has for making that decision can be provided only by him.”

Mr Furbert said that it was “the prerogative of the leader as to who serves on the commission”, adding: “I am looking forward to giving my contribution if the party needs it.”

A source linked to the party said that “what Mr Bean has done appears to be spiteful”, adding: “Here you have two qualified individuals — MP Brown is a qualified researcher who understands the political terrain and MP Furbert who has experience working with constituencies and understands the dynamics of politics.

“The action Mr Bean has taken is a great loss for the party.”