Starmer ignores Labour rebels’ pleas on welfare reforms as he vows to press ahead with cuts
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Starmer hits back at Labour MPs over welfare cuts rebellion
- Sir Keir Starmer is pressing ahead with controversial welfare reforms despite significant opposition from over 100 Labour MPs.
- The proposed legislation aims to save the Treasury £5bn annually, primarily by reducing Personal Independence Payments (PIPs) for those with disabilities.
- Around 108 Labour backbenchers have signed an amendment to stop the bill, with some ministers also reportedly considering rebellion.
- The prime minister insists the vote is not a confidence matter, but internal party sources suggest a potential defeat could threaten the position of chancellor Rachel Reeves.
- Starmer argues the reforms are essential to fix a 'broken' and unsustainable welfare system, while trade unions warn against relying on Tory votes to pass the cuts.