Sir Keir Starmer faces a growing backbench rebellion over cuts to a disability benefit

The Labour Party is currently experiencing internal turmoil as Sir Keir Starmer faces rising dissent from party members regarding proposed cuts to welfare benefits. Following significant losses in the recent local elections, including almost 200 council seats, a faction of Labour MPs, commonly referred to as 'rebel MPs', have vocalized their concerns over the government's plans to implement deeper cuts to welfare. Notably, these cuts include a reduction in the budget for disability benefits, as outlined in the Green Paper published in March. Prominent Labour figures, such as Ian Byrne from Liverpool West Derby, have expressed their vehement opposition to the planned changes, with Byrne famously stating he would 'swim through vomit' to vote against them. Many backbenchers fear that further cuts, especially those affecting universal credit and personal independence payments (PIP), could exacerbate poverty among some of the UK's most vulnerable populations. Labour MP Rachel Maskell has articulated a widely shared sentiment within the party, warning that additional cuts would only deepen the cost of living crisis and result in greater inequality. Moreover, the issue extends beyond parliamentary debate as public concern mounts. Activists and constituents frequently raised the potential removal of benefits on the doorstep during local campaigns, signalling a disconnect between party leadership and grassroots sentiments. As concerns grow, party officials are beginning to see the necessity for reevaluation of their welfare policies. Analysts within the welfare policy domain express skepticism regarding the government's ability to achieve necessary savings without implementing further detriment to welfare recipients. This dilemma is compounded by an anticipated increase in people claiming disability benefits, which is forecasted to rise considerably due to an aging population and historical underinvestment in health services. Some insights from individuals in the disability advocacy sector, like James Taylor from Scope, point out that current proposals are more steeped in fiscal conservatism rather than a genuine desire to assist and uplift disabled individuals. As discussions unfold, Labour MPs are actively calling out the government's contradictory rhetoric—where it asserts support for getting disabled individuals into work while simultaneously planning substantial financial cuts that would severely limit their access to necessary support. In an upcoming vote scheduled for June, notable Labour MPs have signaled that a significant backlash within the party seems likely unless drastic U-turns on policy proposals are made. This unfolding situation with the Labour Party will necessitate careful navigation by Sir Keir Starmer if he intends to retain trust and influence within the party ranks and among the electorate.