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In a move to overhaul the benefits system, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall expressed her strong belief in the government’s welfare cuts, despite facing expected opposition from backbench MPs. The draft law to bring about changes to Pip disability benefits and the sickness-related element of universal credit has been unveiled by Kendall. Official assessments released by ministers highlight a gradual decrease in support for individuals who no longer meet the stricter eligibility criteria, along with protections for the most vulnerable.
Despite reservations from over 100 Labour MPs, the Conservative government is pushing forward with the proposed welfare changes. Criticism has come from the Liberal Democrats and the Green Party, labeling the changes devastating and cruel, respectively. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer reaffirmed his support for the reforms, emphasizing the necessity of pushing the changes through despite internal dissent. Kendall supported this stance, saying the government remains resolute in its convictions.
Claimant levels were described as unsustainable by Kendall, pointing to statistics showing a record 3.7 million people claiming personal independence payments (Pips). The newly published Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill aims to tighten eligibility criteria for Pips and reduce the sickness-related element of universal credit. Impact assessments project that by 2030, the majority of current Pip claimants will still receive their payments, albeit with gradual reductions for some.
The proposed legislation is expected to save the government significant amounts, with projections of reductions in payments to current and future claimants. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on carers who may lose their eligibility for Carers’ Allowance if their partner is no longer eligible for Pip. The government defends the proposal by assuring improved support for individuals who are unable to work due to severe lifelong conditions. While welfare payments are predicted to increase by the end of the Parliament, changes in the legislation aim to slow the rate of growth
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