Starmer faces backlash over welfare reforms amid rising discontent

As the UK government prepares to announce welfare reforms aimed at reducing benefits spending, discontent within the Labour Party is growing. Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall is set to outline plans that include a potential freeze on Personal Independence Payments (PIP), which support individuals with long-term health conditions and disabilities. Critics, including the chief executive of Citizen's Advice, argue that the government's approach risks exacerbating poverty and failing to adequately support vulnerable populations. Some Labour backbenchers have expressed frustration over communication from ministers, with concerns that proposed changes may unfairly penalize those in need. Initial plans to freeze PIP may be reconsidered due to pushback from Labour MPs who view such measures as unacceptable. The situation highlights ongoing tensions within the party regarding welfare strategy and support for the most vulnerable citizens.