Labour MPs accept the need for a second push at welfare reform – but have warned Sir Keir Starmer that any renewed attempt to slash health benefits would spark a fresh revolt against the PM.
MPs on the left of the party have conceded a “sobering” report by former Labour minister Alan Milburn on the youth unemployment crisis means the party needs to look again at a welfare shake-up.
However, MPs said any fresh attempt to cut or restrict personal independence payments (PIP) “would be flogging a dead horse” and spark further backlash against Starmer, after he was forced into a humiliating climbdown over the issue last year.
Shorts
Supporters of Labour leadership hopeful Andy Burnham criticised a suggestion in the Milburn review that the PIP disability benefit should be tied to job searches.
