Labour MP Vicky Foxcroft resigned as a whip in protest against the government’s proposed disability benefit cuts.
In a letter to the Prime Minister, Foxcroft acknowledged the need to address the rising welfare bill but argued that reducing Personal Independence Payments (PIPs) and Universal Credit was not the solution.
She explained her difficult decision to resign, stating that internal efforts to change the proposals had proven unsuccessful.
A government spokesperson responded, asserting that the reforms aim to fix a “broken welfare system,” ensuring those able to work do so while providing support for those unable to work and protecting the severely disabled.
The government’s recently published bill tightens PIP eligibility criteria and reduces the sickness-related component of Universal Credit. This has sparked significant concern among over 100 Labour MPs, potentially leading to a substantial rebellion during the upcoming vote.
Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall affirmed her willingness to engage with concerned colleagues but remained firm in the government’s commitment to the reforms, highlighting the unsustainable rise in claimant numbers and arguing that the current system fails to adequately support those who can work.
Figures released this week show a record high of 3.7 million PIP recipients, up from 2.05 million in 2019. PIP is a non-means-tested benefit supporting individuals with long-term disabilities.
In a bid to alleviate concerns, Kendall extended the transition period for those losing PIP benefits from four to thirteen weeks.
Government impact assessments estimate that 370,000 existing PIP claimants will lose benefits under the changes, resulting in £1.7 billion in savings by 2029/30. An additional £1.89 billion could be saved from a projected reduction of 430,000 potential future claimants. While another assessment suggested 250,000 people could be pushed into poverty, the government counters that this figure doesn’t account for the £1 billion allocated to support the long-term sick and disabled in finding work. Total annual savings are projected at £5 billion by 2030.
Foxcroft’s role as a whip entailed persuading fellow MPs to support the legislation; however, her inability to reconcile her beliefs with her responsibilities led to her resignation. She expressed pride in serving in the government but stated her inability to support cuts affecting disabled people’s finances.
Elected in 2015, Foxcroft previously served as a shadow minister for disabled people, an experience she credits with deepening her understanding of their struggles. Her decision has drawn praise from fellow Labour MPs, including Connor Naismith, who commended her for upholding her principles.
Concerns were raised by an anonymous Labour MP about potential repercussions for those defying the whip, prompting accusations of bullying and authoritarian leadership within the party.