U.K. Prime Minister Faces Significant Backlash Over Welfare Cuts Bill
Keir Starmer's government encounters major dissent as lawmakers rebel against proposed welfare reform.
On July 1, 2025, Prime Minister Keir Starmer encountered one of his most significant parliamentary rebellions since taking office, with a notable number of Labour lawmakers opposing his executive decisions regarding welfare cuts. Despite ultimately passing the bill with a 335 to 260 vote, the internal discord highlighted divisions within the party and raised concerns about Starmer’s leadership strength. The controversial bill intends to amend the social welfare system, primarily targeting payments to disabled individuals, suggesting strict eligibility requirements that would impact a substantial portion of the population. In response to substantial pressure from over 120 dissenting members, the government agreed that the cuts would pertain solely to new claimants, thereby reducing the anticipated savings from £4.8 billion to £2 billion annually. This rebellion underscores challenges for Chancellor Rachel Reeves as she navigates financial constraints within the government. In contrast, the political atmosphere in the U.S. remains relatively calm, with less resistance to significant cuts related to food benefits and healthcare.
Keir Starmer's government encounters major dissent as lawmakers rebel against proposed welfare reform.
On July 1, 2025, Prime Minister Keir Starmer encountered one of his most significant parliamentary rebellions since taking office, with a notable number of Labour lawmakers opposing his executive decisions regarding welfare cuts. Despite ultimately passing the bill with a 335 to 260 vote, the internal discord highlighted divisions within the party and raised concerns about Starmer’s leadership strength. The controversial bill intends to amend the social welfare system, primarily targeting payments to disabled individuals, suggesting strict eligibility requirements that would impact a substantial portion of the population. In response to substantial pressure from over 120 dissenting members, the government agreed that the cuts would pertain solely to new claimants, thereby reducing the anticipated savings from £4.8 billion to £2 billion annually. This rebellion underscores challenges for Chancellor Rachel Reeves as she navigates financial constraints within the government. In contrast, the political atmosphere in the U.S. remains relatively calm, with less resistance to significant cuts related to food benefits and healthcare.
