The phrase "potential rebellion" refers to the possibility or likelihood of a group of people rising against authority or established rules to fight for change or express their dissatisfaction. Full definition
Here's our news story from this morning, covering Cameron's statement and potential rebellion in the Lib Dem ranks. (politics.co.uk)
This led one Tory MP to complain that the government was trying to time - out potential rebellions. (politics.co.uk)
The development was particularly frustrating for Mr Clegg, given that he had managed to face down a more substantial potential rebellion yesterday which could have seen the party actually oppose the bill. (politics.co.uk)