The Labour leader with chief of staff Karie Murphy, who is cementing her influence

Jeremy Corbyn faces a rebellion from grassroots supporters over claims he has given friends the chance to run as Labour candidates at the next election while overlooking local activists in dozens of parliamentary seats.

The Labour leader is accused of overseeing “stitch-ups” in which allies have broken party rules or received preferential treatment in applying for constituencies, including seats with which they have no known links.

Activists are mulling boycotts and “civil disobedience” — which could include blocking or interrupting hustings — in protest at candidates being left off shortlists. Several have submitted formal complaints or launched legal action.

In Coventry North West, members are threatening to “go nuclear” by boycotting the vote on a candidate and seeking a new option: “Reopen nominations”.

Its chairwoman