How much longer can Brown and Mandelson rein in Labour’s discontents?

After John McDonnell’s suspension from the Commons today, it’s time for another installment of Rebellion Watch.  Truth is, numerous Labour MPs aren’t behind the Heathrow proposal – indeed, Brown’s said to be pretty much the only Cabinet member who truly supports it – but they’re being won over, for now, by the prospect of it creating more jobs as well as, I’m sure, by the notion of causing difficulties for the Tories.  By all accounts, much of the behind-the-scenes persuasion is being done by Peter Mandelson – but can the Enobled One hold back all the tides of rebellion as 2009 progresses?

It’s not looking promising for Brown ‘n’ Mandy.  As well as the potential for further trouble over Heathrow, today’s Indpendent reports that the Post Office revolt is swelling.  And with Frank Field on the warpath over the Government’s economic agenda, there’s the expectation that something might happen over 10p tax compensation come Budget time.