Labour MPs Reject UK Government Plans Cutting Disability Benefits, Impacting Over 800,000 Claimants

The UK government, led by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, plans to implement welfare reforms through the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Bill aimed at saving £5 billion annually by 2030, primarily by tightening eligibility for disability benefits and reducing Universal Credit payments. These proposed changes have sparked significant opposition, with over 100 Labour MPs signing a rebel amendment to block the bill, citing concerns that it would push an estimated 250,000 people, including 50,000 children, into poverty and exacerbate health inequalities and poverty. Critics, including London Mayor Sadiq Khan and MP Robin Swann, argue that the reforms would dismantle crucial support for disabled and vulnerable individuals, impacting carers and increasing societal harms such as homelessness and reduced life chances for children. The amendment calls for halting the bill's progress to allow for further consultation and proper impact assessments, with MPs emphasizing the lack of formal consultation with disabled people and carers. Despite the rebellion, the government insists the welfare system is unsustainable and plans to press ahead with the reforms. The upcoming Commons vote will determine whether the bill proceeds, with potential political consequences for MPs opposing the government.