Additional Labour MPs join the rebellion against benefits, despite ministers'

Additional Labour MPs join the rebellion against benefits, despite ministers' requests.

Increasing numbers of Labour MPs are joining the movement to oppose the government's proposed changes to welfare, despite efforts from ministers to persuade them to back off.

Over 130 MPs, including 120 from Labour, have signed an amendment that would allow them to vote against the proposed cuts to disability and sickness-related benefits, which aim to save £5 billion annually by 2030. Reports indicate that Cabinet ministers have been reaching out to Labour backbenchers, urging them to withdraw their support for the amendment. So far, only one Labour MP, Samantha Niblett, has removed her name from the list. Sir Keir Starmer has committed to moving forward with the welfare reforms.