The New Statesman | UK politics and culture Welfare warfare just the start of Starmer's problems
Jun 30, 2025
Tom McTague, Editor-in-Chief at the New Statesman, and Will Dunn, Business Editor at the New Statesman, dive into the political turmoil surrounding the welfare bill. They discuss the implications of parliamentary rebellions on government authority and Keir Starmer's waning position amidst Labour's inner conflicts. The duo highlights the fiscal challenges facing the UK, particularly the pressure from bond markets and its impact on policy-making. They also explore the historical context of government borrowing and the urgent need for strategic fiscal management.
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Early Rebellions Signal Deeper Problems
- A rebellion by 50 to 70 MPs within a year of government is significant though not a defeat.
- Early rebellions like this mark deeper challenges in government authority and effectiveness.
Rebellions Undermine Authority
- MPs tend to rebel repeatedly once they've done it once, weakening government authority.
- The large parliamentary majority may encourage more rebellions due to perceived government security.
Welfare Cuts Hurt Government Trust
- Targeting disabled people early in cuts looks politically cruel and damages government-MP relations.
- MPs feel safe to rebel due to weak Tory leadership and strong parliamentary majority.