Labour frontbenchers poised to quit over PIP cuts – despite winter fuel U-turn ...Middle East

Pressure on No10 to change course over plans to restrict benefits – including personal independence payments (PIP) – showed no sign of abating this week despite the PM’s U-turn on the winter fuel allowance.

The i Paper understands there are around five members of the frontbench, in parliamentary private secretary (PPS) roles, who have said they would be prepared to resign if the cuts are not watered down.

MPs are also worried over the Government’s decision to block those under the age of 22 from being able to receive incapacity benefits.

They have asked for a more thorough public consultation of the disability benefit changes and an independent assessment of the impact it would have both on individuals and public services.

The Government has a working majority of 165 votes, taking into consideration MPs who do not vote, and many rebels who would be inclined to abstain rather than vote against Keir Starmer.

One Labour rebel told The i Paper the measures must be delayed by a year, with a package of reforms to mental health support announced before they are voted on.

But it is understood Government insiders believe there is little room to manoeuvre given the increase in reliance on disability benefits and the urgent need to reform the system.

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The Government said the benefits bill for sickness and disability has increased by £20 billion since the pandemic and is expected to rise by a further £18bn by the end of the current Parliament without reforms.

PIP is not means-tested or related to a person’s work status but based on a person’s capability.

The Universal Credit health element – which is for those out of work who are assessed as too sick to look for employment – will also be restricted.

Speaking at a think tank event in central London, Kendall said she understood there were concerns about some of the proposals but argued they were key in the political fight against Reform UK.

She denied she was forced into the cuts due to the need to make savings.

It comes after it emerged that Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner had written to Chancellor Rachel Reeves in March urging her to consider higher wealth taxes, rather than cutting the welfare bill.

Downing Street was contacted for comment.

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