Breaking News from the UK: Labour Party leader and Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing strong opposition from within his own party over controversial disability benefit cuts. Nearly 50 Labour MPs are worried that these changes will create a “two-tier” welfare system, where current claimants and future claimants are treated differently.
These internal tensions come at a sensitive time, just as the government approaches its first anniversary in power. Despite attempts to calm the situation, many MPs, disability charities, and campaigners believe the proposed legislation will harm disabled people, especially those with fluctuating health conditions.
What’s Happening?
- MPs Warn of Unfair System
Labour MPs are upset that the new benefits plan would protect existing claimants but cut support for future ones. Many fear this will divide the disability community. Even though some changes have been made to soften the cuts, critics say it’s still a major cost-cutting plan that will leave vulnerable people worse off. - Amendment to Delay the Bill
Rebel MPs are planning to introduce a new amendment to delay the vote on the bill, which is expected to cut £2.5 billion from future disability support. These MPs want to push for stronger legal protections and ethical guidelines before the bill is approved. - Disability Charities Speak Out
Many disability rights organisations have called the bill “fatally flawed.” Groups like Scope and Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC) say that despite the concessions, the changes will harm over 430,000 disabled people by 2029. The proposed changes could leave people unable to afford basic needs like food, clothing, and hygiene.
Key Statements and Responses
- Keir Starmer defended the bill, saying it would still protect 370,000 existing claimants who might have lost benefits under earlier proposals. He called the updated package “balanced,” but admitted more funding details would come in the next budget.
- Diane Abbott, a senior Labour MP, said the rebellion was “far from over,” while other MPs warned that Labour risks losing trust by appearing to punish disabled people.
- Simon Opher, Labour MP for Stroud, said: “This bill doesn’t fix what’s broken in the current system. It needs to be scrapped and rewritten with disabled people in mind.”
- Peter Lamb, Labour MP for Crawley, added: “This is still about saving money, not about providing support. People who need help to wash, dress, or eat could lose it.”
Labour MPs Want More Clarity
- Many MPs are still undecided and waiting for more details. Some feel they were rushed into agreeing with the bill based on late-night emails and last-minute pressure from party leaders.
- Stella Creasy, another senior Labour MP, stressed the need to understand why new claimants will be treated differently than current ones. She and others want a full review before the new system begins.
- Some MPs are also calling for Vicky Foxcroft to be reinstated. She stepped down as a whip after voting against the bill before the recent changes were announced.
Charity Reactions and Future Plans
- The Scope charity warned that life is already more expensive for disabled people, and this bill could make it much worse. The group said the changes would make it harder for people to live independently or find work.
- James Taylor, Strategy Director at Scope, explained: “These cuts will create a two-tier system and damage people’s health and dignity.”
- The government confirmed that people who apply for Personal Independence Payments (PIP) after November 2026 will face new rules. Those who lose benefits and reapply won’t get the same level of support they had before.
Disability Bill Puts Starmer Under Pressure
This ongoing welfare reform crisis has become a top issue in the Daily news highlights, threatening to divide Labour at a time when unity is crucial. With so many Labour MPs still resisting, and charities warning of long-term harm, Starmer’s leadership is being put to the test.
The next few days will be critical. Whether the bill passes or not, this issue has already sparked a national conversation about how Britain treats its disabled citizens—and whether a Labour government can truly deliver fairness for all.
