Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is facing significant internal backlash over his government’s proposed welfare reforms, with Labour MP Richard Burgon warning of the “mother of all rebellions” if the plans to slash benefits are not reversed.
The controversy erupted after Starmer defended the reforms during Prime Minister’s Questions, insisting that the current benefits system is “morally and economically indefensible.”
The government recently announced £5 billion in welfare cuts, sparking outrage among Labour’s left-wing MPs and disability rights advocates. Burgon took to social media to criticize the proposals, highlighting the case of a disabled woman who would lose her Personal Independence Payments (PIP) under the new system.
He wrote: “The Prime Minister was unable to answer a simple question today about why a disabled person who needs help to eat, wash, and manage toilet needs could no longer get personal independence payments under his proposals. The Government must drop this cruel proposal or it’ll face the mother of all rebellions.”
During PMQs, SDLP MP Colum Eastwood confronted Starmer with the story of a disabled woman who relies on her children for basic tasks like eating, washing, and using the toilet. Under the current system, she qualifies for PIP, but under Starmer’s proposed reforms, she would receive no support. Eastwood asked: “What was the point [of getting rid of the Tories] if Labour are going to do this?”
Starmer responded by sharing his personal experience of living with a disabled mother and brother, emphasizing his understanding of the challenges faced by disabled individuals. He defended the reforms, stating: “The current system is morally and economically indefensible, and we’re right to reform it. Nobody should be defending the broken status quo.” He outlined three principles guiding the reforms:
1. If you can work, you should work.
2. If you need help to work, the state should help, not hinder you.
3. If you can never work, you must be supported, not protected.
However, the proposed tightening of PIP eligibility has drawn sharp criticism, with opponents arguing that it will leave vulnerable individuals without essential support. The reforms are part of a broader effort to reduce welfare spending, but they have ignited a civil war within the Labour Party, with many MPs and activists calling for the plans to be scrapped.
As the debate intensifies, Starmer faces mounting pressure to address the concerns of his party and the public. The outcome of this internal conflict could have significant implications for his leadership and the future of Labour’s welfare policies.
