The Welfare Bill is too little, too late
Spectator (UK)JUN 16
UK: Labour MPs Rebel Against Welfare Reform Bill
Above: Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves on June 23, 2025. Image copyright: Jacob King/WPA Pool/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
Welfare reforms are essential to fix a broken system that traps people out of work and threatens the sustainability of support for those who truly need it. The current trajectory is unsustainable with disability benefit costs set to reach £70 billion annually by decade's end. The reforms protect the most vulnerable while encouraging work through a £1 billion employment support package.
Left narrative
Starmer is pushing through reforms that will devastate disabled lives. The PIP changes will strip support for those who desperately need help but don't fit neat bureaucratic boxes. Someone unable to cut food or dress independently won't qualify under these cruel new rules. Labour MPs must rebel against this shameful retreat from compassion and genuine human need.
Right narrative
Starmer's leadership is collapsing. With MPs threatening rebellion and his own whip resigning, he's powerless against his party's left wing. Labour backbenchers are sabotaging underwhelming welfare reforms while bond markets lose faith. Starmer promised tough decisions but caves to every revolt from those who'd rather bankrupt Britain than cut a penny from handouts.