MPs to vote on welfare bill as unrest rumbles on

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Helen Catt, a political correspondent, reports that Members of Parliament are set to vote on the government’s welfare reforms today. Despite concessions made by ministers, many Labour MPs are still planning to vote against the proposed changes. The Conservatives, on the other hand, have declared their opposition to the plans, labeling them as lacking in substance.

The rebellion within the Labour party has seen fluctuations in its scale. Initially, over 120 Labour MPs signed an amendment that could have derailed the proposals entirely, posing a significant threat to the government. However, a revised amendment, backed by disability charities, has garnered support from approximately 35 Labour MPs. This shift suggests that last-minute concessions may have lessened the risk of a government defeat, although the outcome is still uncertain.

Several MPs have raised concerns about the timing of a review of personal independence payment (Pip) assessments. Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall announced that the review’s results would align with the introduction of the proposed changes, prompting skepticism among Labour members. Efforts to rally support within the party are ongoing, with the government making persuasive appeals leading up to the scheduled vote later today.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has reiterated her party’s stance against the welfare measures, citing concerns about the escalating benefits bill. She emphasized the need for cost-saving measures, pointing out that Labour’s approach merely slows the rate of increase without generating savings. Critics have voiced a range of objections to the government’s reforms, with Labour MP Olivia Blake cautioning against punitive welfare cuts that may not achieve the intended outcomes. As discussions continue and MPs deliberate their votes, the impact of the rebellion is anticipated to be significant

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