Sky News Daily Is Labour facing big backlash over welfare reforms?
Jun 18, 2025
Political correspondent Tamara Cohen dives into the turbulent waters of Labour's proposed welfare reforms. She highlights the backlash from within the party and among the public, particularly regarding cuts that could affect over three million households. Cohen discusses the clash between the government's push for reforms aimed at promoting employment and the fears that vulnerable families could be pushed into poverty. The conversation also touches on the historical context of austerity and its impact on current welfare policies.
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Welfare Reform Targets and Concerns
- The reforms mainly target Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Universal Credit to save £5 billion.
- Many worry these changes will push disabled people and families into poverty without adequate employment support.
Rising Claims and Reform Justification
- The rise in PIP claims doubled since 2019, driven by factors like COVID and cost of living.
- The government views the system as unsustainable but faces criticism that reforms could cause catastrophic harm.
Austerity’s Impact and Labour's Response
- The UK’s rising benefits bill contrasts with other countries that saw stable numbers.
- Disability groups blame austerity cuts for worsening conditions, while Labour emphasizes compassion as part of its reform rationale.