Liz Kendall confronts mounting Labour rebellion as she defiantly advances contentious welfare cuts. Critics warn these changes could force 250,000 vulnerable citizens into poverty. The Work and Pensions Secretary faces the most significant backbench revolt since Keir Starmer took office.
Kendall recently wrote to MPs, refusing to postpone the reforms. She emphasized the need to save £5bn from welfare spending. The plan tightens PIP eligibility rules significantly. Additionally, it slashes incapacity benefits by 50% for new Universal Credit applicants.
Meanwhile, the Work and Pensions Committee demanded a delay for proper review. Chair Debbie Abrahams highlighted potential catastrophic impacts. The group fears increased poverty and deteriorating public health. Nevertheless, Kendall insists legislation must pass by November for 2026 implementation.
Currently, at least 54 Labour MPs plan to oppose the bill. Some insiders predict rebellion numbers could triple. Backbenchers cite alarming evidence linking benefit cuts to rising suicide rates. Even junior ministers reportedly oppose these harsh measures.
Stourbridge MP Cat Eccles condemned Kendall’s approach as dangerously narrow. She argued the reforms would shred the social safety net. Eccles warned vulnerable people would inevitably slip through these widening gaps.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves firmly backed Kendall’s position during a BBC interview. She stated unequivocally that no policy changes would occur. However, the staggering scale of dissent suggests an impending political crisis.
The crucial vote scheduled for June 30 looms large. Analysts predict record-breaking rebellion numbers. Official estimates show 3.2 million households losing £1,720 yearly. Liz Kendall confronts mounting Labour rebellion as critics decry these changes as heartless austerity.
With tensions escalating, the government faces an impossible choice. It must balance fiscal responsibility against preserving party cohesion. The coming weeks will test Labour’s unity like never before.
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