Disability Benefit Cuts Backlash Labour Rebels Demand Stronger Concessions

The disability benefit cuts backlash continues to shake Keir Starmer’s government as rebel MPs dismiss recent concessions. Vicky Foxcroft, who resigned as whip over the welfare bill, insists changes must go further urging ministers to co-design reforms with disabled communities before slashing support.

Despite No. 10’s pledge to shield current PIP claimants from reductions and inflation-link Universal Credit health payments, critics argue the plan remains flawed. Foxcroft, in a Guardian interview, stressed: “Warm words aren’t enough we need policies that don’t harm the vulnerable.”

The DWP unveiled a PIP review led by Stephen Timms, promising collaboration with disabled groups. Yet rebels demand its completion before November’s cuts take effect. With 50+ Labour MPs still uneasy, former transport secretary Louise Haigh’s shift to support the bill fails to quell dissent.

Foxcroft blasted the rushed timeline: “We’re tinkering to make it ‘least worst’ why not pause and fix it properly?” Her call echoes disability advocate Marie Tidball’s plea for deeper consultation to honor Labour’s manifesto vows.

A legal opinion commissioned by Equity union warns the reforms breach UN disability rights treaties, risking “longstanding violations.” Jamie Burton KC condemned the push to “cut bills by punishing claimants” a pattern he says global monitors routinely condemn.

Olivia Blake, a disabled Labour MP, slammed the “unethical two-tier system” emerging from concessions, urging colleagues to hold firm. Meanwhile, Starmer admitted missteps, telling the Sunday Times he focused “too late” on quelling the revolt.

With Tuesday’s vote looming, the disability benefit cuts backlash leaves Starmer’s team scrambling. As Foxcroft put it: “Respecting dissent isn’t weakness it’s how we avoid disastrous policies.” The question remains: Will Downing Street listen, or face a rebellion that could redefine its social justice credentials?

For more political updates, visit London Pulse News.