UK (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Keir Starmer’s plan to freeze disability benefits sparks major opposition within Labour, with MPs voicing anger over the potential harm to vulnerable people.
Sir Keir Starmer faces mounting rebellion within Labour, with numerous MPs expressing concern over the potential harm of his proposed welfare cuts, warning it could be a significant mistake.
To avoid a major conflict, Number 10 invited Labour backbenchers for discussions, stressing the “moral case” for reforms focused on returning people to work.
A large number of MPs have expressed concern that Rachel Reeves’ proposed welfare measures regarding personal independence payments, exceed the approach taken by former Conservative Chancellor George Osborne, who pledged to raise PIP despite cuts to working-age benefits.
How did Number 10 react to new MPs’ anger over welfare changes?
Number 10 officials were reportedly shocked by the scale of anger from loyal MPs during the meetings.
Senior government figures have hinted that change is possible, but reversing course could lead to a large fiscal shortfall.
What impact will freezing disability benefits have on Labour Support?
Labour MPs prepare to vote on the freeze, tensions grow within the party. While the government’s majority remains strong, the planned cuts face significant challenges as MPs push back against the policy.
While the government’s majority is strong, the proposed changes will likely pass. However, some MPs still have concerns about these measures.
How will Labour MPs respond to the government’s welfare reforms, despite their frustrations?
One insider from the Labour party said, “We’re in government and I feel utterly useless. They [No 10] will understand our frustrations, though largely private, when we get a chance to vote.”
How will Liz Kendall’s Employment support plans address concerns?
Liz Kendall, the work and pensions secretary, has raised concerns over the value of the schemes. She has also addressed growing concerns, securing the savings necessary to fund employment support.
Ms Kendall is ready to present the plans in the House of Commons statement early this week. The government has acknowledged that she faces a “hard challenge” with the proposed changes.
How does Keir Starmer plan to Reform the broken welfare system?
During Prime Minister’s Questions, Keir Starmer acknowledged the concerns of disabled people and their families regarding the proposed legislation. He accused the current system of being broken, highlighting that Labour inherited this issue and that reform is essential.
He stated,
“We will have clear principles, we will protect those who need protecting. We will also support those who can work back to work, but Labour is the party of work, we’re also the party of equality and fairness.”
How will the proposed £6bn cuts to disability benefits impact disabled people?
Around £6 billion in cuts are expected to come from PIP, with tighter eligibility criteria and some frozen payments. Despite these changes, the benefit will not be means-tested.
How will Labour’s back-to-work schemes affect the unemployed?
A government insider expressed concerns that Chancellor Reeves’s department had been “very short-sighted” regarding the back-to-work schemes. However, a Treasury source defended her, stating that she understood the importance of reinvesting in these programs.
The initiative will target those aged between 18 and 22, introduced last autumn to help young people find jobs or education opportunities.
What changes does Labour plan for Britain’s benefit system?
Economic experts have suggested that the Office for Budget Responsibility’s (OBR) forecasts for this month’s spring statement will likely include only cuts to benefit levels, with reforms being excluded as bankable savings.
The Labour leader, in a private meeting with MPs, described Britain’s benefits system as “the worst of all worlds.”