Several Labour MPs have announced their opposition to the government’s proposed disability benefit cuts.
During Wednesday’s debate, nine Labour MPs publicly expressed concerns about the government’s plan to tighten eligibility criteria for disability payments. This follows recent calls for policy review after Labour’s significant losses in last week’s local elections.
The proposed cuts, along with other policy decisions, have faced increasing scrutiny.
Disability Minister Sir Stephen Timms defended the reforms, emphasizing the need for long-term financial sustainability of the welfare system.
In March, the government unveiled a comprehensive welfare reform package, aiming to reduce spending and encourage employment.
Ministers project annual savings of approximately £5 billion by 2030 through changes to the personal independence payment (PIP) and universal credit (UC), anticipating increased workforce participation.
The government currently allocates £65 billion annually to health and disability benefits, a figure projected to reach £100 billion by 2029 before the proposed PIP and UC adjustments.
Government estimates suggest 3.2 million families could experience a reduction in benefits, while 3.8 million could see improvements by 2030.
Parliament is expected to vote on legislation enacting these welfare changes.
During the Westminster Hall debate, Labour MP Diane Abbott criticized the government for “balancing its books on the backs of people on welfare.”
Ian Byrne, MP for Liverpool West Derby, declared his intention to vote against the proposals. He was joined by fellow Labour MPs Richard Burgon, Rachael Maskell, Andy McDonald, Cat Eccles, Nadia Whittome, Imran Hussain, Steve Witherden, and Ian Lavery, as well as independent MP John McDonnell.
Further Labour MPs have expressed opposition through various channels, including public statements, local media articles, and social media.
Sir Stephen Timms defended the proposals, arguing the current rate of welfare spending is unsustainable, stating the need for a “more proactive, pro-work system.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer faces mounting pressure to reconsider policy decisions. At Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday, he defended the cancellation of winter fuel payments for many pensioners, a move opposed by a large group of Labour MPs.
The disability benefit changes are poised to become a significant political battleground, with parliamentary debate anticipated in June.
Reports suggest some potential rebels have been assured leniency regarding the party whip if they abstain or are absent during the vote.
While Labour’s majority safeguards the government from defeat, a large-scale rebellion would underscore internal party dissent.
Senior minister Pat McFadden urged the party to focus on the future, criticizing Reform UK’s rhetoric emphasizing a return to the past.
McFadden emphasized the need for Labour to win “the fight for Britain’s future.”
Subscribe to our Politics Essential newsletter for ongoing coverage of Westminster and beyond.