Downing Street is preparing to offer concessions to Labour MPs ahead of a major rebellion over the government's planned welfare cuts. More than 120 MPs are poised to oppose the bill next Tuesday, with divisions at the top of government over how to address the growing anger.
Concessions under consideration include changes to the eligibility points for Personal Independence Payments (Pip) and alterations to the health top-up for Universal Credit. The prime minister's chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, has been holding one-on-one talks with senior rebels, and several cabinet ministers believe the bill cannot pass in its current form.
Keir Starmer, who dismissed the backlash as “noises off,” is expected to begin speaking directly to MPs after returning from the Nato summit. The rebellion, led by select committee chairs including Meg Hillier, has seen at least 126 Labour MPs sign a reasoned amendment that would effectively kill the bill. Only one MP has withdrawn their name despite pressure from whips and ministers.
Sources indicate a split within government between those wanting to pull the vote, offer concessions, or press ahead. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is reportedly opposed to pulling the vote. A frontbench source said winning without a concession that peels away a large chunk of rebels is unlikely. Chief whip Alan Campbell has told MPs the government needs to “ameliorate” the situation.
MPs expect resignations from frontbenchers if no changes are made. A senior government source said concessions would be presented by Friday to allow time for consideration over the weekend. Starmer, speaking at the Nato summit, defended his judgment, citing Labour's landslide election win as proof.
