The United Kingdom is bracing for significant changes to its welfare system as the government plans to reduce health and disability benefits amidst soaring costs. The bill for these benefits is projected to reach £70 billion annually by 2030, prompting ministers to pledge a £3 billion reduction over three years. Next week, further cuts are expected to be announced, targeting the personal independence payment (Pip) and funding for initiatives aimed at helping those with long-term illnesses return to work. These developments have sparked concern and anger among Labour MPs, who fear public backlash and internal division.
The planned cuts could see up to £6 billion slashed from the welfare budget, a move that has left some Labour MPs anxious about the potential public outcry. Senior MPs have expressed frustration over the support for these cuts from newer colleagues, who have been vocal in their backing. A letter supporting the reductions, signed by 36 MPs from the Get Britain Working Group, was sent to Welfare Secretary Liz Kendall. The Treasury has faced criticism for allegedly viewing the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) as an "easy target" for balancing the government's finances.
Labour leader Keir Starmer has described the benefits system as "the worst of all worlds," condemning the number of people out of work or training as "indefensible and unfair." Some Labour MPs privately express horror at the proposed cuts, predicting dissatisfaction and unrest within the party. One MP said the current plan would "leave a lot of Labour members frustrated and unhappy," while another described the situation as akin to "having a bomb dropped on my inbox if it's as negative as the pitch seems to be getting rolled for."
“It seems like we’re about to kick support from underneath instead of lifting people up.” – An unnamed Labour MP
The argument being presented ahead of next week's welfare green paper is that Labour must position itself as "the party of work" with a duty to reduce welfare costs. However, this stance has not been universally accepted within the party.
“There is no moral case.” – An unnamed Labour MP
Some Labour MPs are furious with those supporting the cuts, believing it contradicts the party's values.
“The [benefits bill] figures are worrying but the reality is, we’re attacking the worst-off.” – An unnamed Labour MP
The impact of these proposed cuts has been a source of distress among MPs, with one expressing feelings of powerlessness within the government.
“I’m pissed off. We’re in government and I feel utterly useless. They [No 10] will understand our frustrations, though largely private, when we get a chance to vote.” – An unnamed Labour MP
There is concern about the process and criteria for assessing individuals' eligibility for benefits. Reports suggest that some beneficiaries have not had their cases reassessed since 2019, raising doubts about whether those in need continue to receive appropriate support.
“Anyone who has had their disability benefits since 2019 hasn’t had their cases reassessed.” – A veteran MP
“It’s worrying that the DWP wouldn’t have even checked to see if they are still unwell.” – A veteran MP
Despite these concerns, there remains some optimism that those with severe health conditions will not be left without support.
“Ultimately, I’m confident that people with extreme health cases won’t be left without a safety net; it’s just not going to happen.” – A veteran MP