Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Labour's Concessions on Disability Benefits Face MP Resistance

6/28/2025

25 3

Summary

Story summary

In a bid to avert a Commons defeat, Labour's DWP chief Liz Kendall unveiled significant concessions on disability benefit cuts. Key changes include safeguarding income for current Universal Credit health element recipients and reassessing PIP evaluations. However, worries linger for vulnerable groups, as 126 MPs stand against the proposed reforms, highlighting the ongoing struggle for support.

History

Historical Context

The Welfare Reform Act of 2012, spearheaded by Iain Duncan Smith, significantly altered disability benefits in the UK, resulting in a 20% reduction in Disability Living Allowance recipients. This sparked protests from groups like Disability Rights UK. As of 2023, tensions persist, with 126 MPs opposing further cuts that jeopardize support for vulnerable individuals, highlighting ongoing challenges in welfare reform.

1 of 2

Story summary

In a bid to avert a Commons defeat, Labour's DWP chief Liz Kendall unveiled significant concessions on disability benefit cuts. Key changes include safeguarding income for current Universal Credit health element recipients and reassessing PIP evaluations. However, worries linger for vulnerable groups, as 126 MPs stand against the proposed reforms, highlighting the ongoing struggle for support.

1 / 2