The Prime Minister is reportedly reconsidering aspects of planned welfare cuts amid growing unrest within his party, especially concerning changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) eligibility.
According to reports from the Manchester Evening News, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is exploring possible adjustments to ease the impact of these cuts. While details remain limited, it is clear that the government aims to implement reforms expected to save approximately £5 billion per year.
This cautious approach follows mounting pressure from Labour MPs concerned about the effects of tightening benefit access on vulnerable claimants.
Growing Pressure From Backbenchers
Reports suggest that disability benefit claimants could receive longer transitional periods to seek alternative support before reforms take full effect. This potential extension aims to soften the impact of the changes on those most affected.
The possibility of softening the initial proposals comes amid threats of a sizeable backbench rebellion, with more than 100 Labour MPs potentially opposing the tightening of PIP eligibility criteria. Peter Lamb, Labour MP for Crawley, has explicitly stated he would be
Voting against anything which is going to restrict access to PIP further than it’s currently restricted
during an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Westminster Hour. This reflects the unease felt by many within the party.
Labour MPs from different wings have described themselves as “deeply uncomfortable” with the government’s current welfare reform plans, emphasizing the delicate balance between fiscal responsibility and social support.
Recent Concessions and Ongoing Demands
Labour backbenchers have already succeeded in securing a partial reversal of planned cuts to the winter fuel payment, a key benefit for pensioners during colder months. The Prime Minister announced this change of direction during Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), though he did not provide specifics on when or how the eligibility would be expanded.
Sir Keir Starmer stated,
We want to make sure people feel those improvements in their days as their lives go forward – He added,
That is why we want to ensure that as we go forward, more pensioners are eligible for winter fuel payments.
These comments highlight the government’s intention to address concerns while managing budgetary constraints.
In addition to the PIP reforms and winter fuel payment changes, Labour MPs are intensifying pressure on the Prime Minister to reconsider the two-child benefit cap, another welfare policy under scrutiny.
This cap limits financial support for families with more than two children and has been widely debated within the party and beyond.
