Labour MP Sir Keir Starmer’s welfare bill has narrowly passed its second reading in Parliament, despite a significant rebellion by 49 of his own MPs. The bill’s passage marks the most substantial challenge to Starmer’s premiership since he took office last year.
The welfare bill, which aims to cut benefits for certain groups, was met with fierce opposition from Labour MPs, many of whom expressed their discontent with the legislation. Disability minister Sir Stephen Timms announced a concession that plans to restrict eligibility for personal independence payments (PIP) will not come into force until after a review of the benefit has concluded.
The government’s initial plan to change the eligibility criteria for disability benefits for all new claimants had sparked controversy, and several Labour MPs, including Ms Maria Tidball, who has a congenital disability affecting her limbs, spoke out against the bill. Tidball broke down in tears during the debate, criticizing the welfare cuts.
Despite the opposition, the bill passed with a majority of 75 votes to 260 noes. Work and pensions secretary Liz Kendall acknowledged that welfare reform is difficult for Labour governments due to their passion for the subject.
The government has watered down the legislation several times, including by excluding existing claimants from changes to PIP in a recent U-turn. However, the bill still faces significant opposition, and it remains to be seen whether Starmer can overcome the challenges posed by his own MPs.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/mp-vote-welfare-benefit-cuts-uk-b2780704.html