Disability benefit claimants may be granted more time to adjust before Labour’s proposed welfare reforms take effect, as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer reportedly considers making “tweaks” to the controversial plan.
According to The Times, Starmer is exploring ways to soften the impact of the Government’s proposed changes to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) scheme. The reforms, which aim to tighten eligibility criteria in a bid to save £5 billion annually, have sparked significant backlash, including the threat of a major backbench rebellion.
Among the measures being discussed is a longer “transitional period” for claimants who may lose access to PIP. This would allow more time for individuals to seek alternative benefits or support. The rebellion on the Labour benches appears to be growing, with reports suggesting that over 100 MPs could oppose the current proposal.
One of the most vocal critics is Peter Lamb, the Labour MP for Crawley, who made his position clear on BBC Radio 4’s Westminster Hour. “I would be voting against anything which is going to restrict access to PIP further than it’s currently restricted,” he stated.
Lamb also said many within the party are “deeply uncomfortable” with the direction of the reforms, highlighting the growing tension between the leadership and its MPs.
This comes on the heels of a previous backbench-led partial U-turn from Starmer on plans to cut the winter fuel payment. Although the Prime Minister announced the change of direction during Prime Minister’s Questions last week, specific details on the expanded eligibility remain unclear.
Starmer has defended the welfare reform proposals as part of necessary economic measures, saying: “We want to make sure people feel those improvements in their days as their lives go forward.”
He continued: “That is why we want to ensure that as we go forward, more pensioners are eligible for winter fuel payments.” Starmer also stressed that any major changes would be announced as part of a wider fiscal event.
With mounting internal opposition and growing public scrutiny, Labour’s leadership may be forced to further reassess its approach to welfare reform, especially if it hopes to maintain unity within the party ranks.
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