Labour Faces Party Tensions Over £5 Billion Welfare Cuts

Labour's welfare reform package, aimed at reducing costs and encouraging employment, is drawing criticism from disability advocates and MPs, with internal dissent threatening party unity.

The Labour government has proposed a £5 billion welfare reform package, primarily targeting health and disability benefits, to address rising welfare costs projected to reach £70 billion annually by 2030.
Critics warn that up to 1.2 million people could lose Personal Independence Payments (PIP), with some households facing income losses of up to £10,000 per year.
The reforms include delaying access to the health element of Universal Credit for individuals under 22, which has been criticized as disproportionately affecting vulnerable young people.
Labour MPs have expressed significant dissent, with some threatening rebellion or resignation over the cuts, particularly regarding tightened PIP eligibility criteria.
An impact assessment, expected next week, may influence the ongoing debate as concerns grow over potential unintended consequences, including increased NHS pressure and legal challenges.