Keir Starmer has firmly defended Labour’s proposed benefits cuts, emphasizing the necessity of enacting these reforms despite internal dissent. The plan aims for a £5 billion reduction in the benefits bill by 2030, impacting Personal Independence Payment (PIP) eligibility and Universal Credit.
The proposed changes, facing opposition from numerous Labour MPs, include stricter criteria for PIP, primarily impacting those with less severe disabilities in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This has prompted concerns amongst dozens of Labour MPs.
Starmer asserted the current system’s inefficiency, stating, “The system is not working… it’s not working for those that need support, it’s not working for taxpayers. Everybody agrees it needs reform.” He emphasized his commitment to implementing these reforms.
Key proposals include replacing the current work capability assessment by 2028 with a single assessment based on the PIP system, along with stricter PIP eligibility requirements.
This tightening of eligibility focuses on claimants demonstrating a higher degree of assistance needed for daily tasks. While more frequent reassessments are planned, those with severe, long-term conditions will be exempt. Government estimates suggest up to 1.3 million people could experience a reduction in benefits.
Despite several Labour MPs threatening to vote against the bill, recent government concessions include a 13-week transition period, although this has been deemed insufficient by some critics.
The government’s impact assessment predicts the welfare reforms could push an additional 250,000 people, including 50,000 children, into relative poverty. Despite this, Starmer remains resolute, reiterating his commitment to the reforms’ core principles: supporting those unable to work while ensuring those capable do so.
Conservative shadow minister Alan Mak criticized the plan as “rushed cuts” necessitated by economic instability, while the Liberal Democrats advocate for a wider system reform instead of targeting specific benefits.
Prior to leaving office, the Conservatives pledged significant funding for NHS mental health services and highlighted tackling what they termed “sick note culture.” The Lib Dems propose broader systemic reforms to achieve savings without targeting individual benefits like PIP.
Subscribe to our Politics Essential newsletter for in-depth political analysis and updates delivered daily.