Labour Delays PIP Reforms to Avoid Commons Rebellion on Welfare Bill

Labour Delays PIP Reforms to Avoid Commons Rebellion on Welfare Bill

What happened

The Labour government has made major concessions on its flagship welfare reform bill in a bid to defuse an internal rebellion, particularly around Personal Independence Payment (PIP) changes. Disability minister Sir Stephen Timms confirmed that any alterations to PIP will now be delayed until at least autumn 2025, pending the outcome of a full independent review. This marks the second key concession made in response to growing dissent from within Labour’s own ranks. Following this, the bill passed its second reading in the Commons by 335 votes to 260, with a majority of 75.

Why it matters

The delay signals a significant retreat from earlier government plans, reflecting mounting political pressure and divisions within Labour. Ministers hoped the PIP concession would quell resistance, but the scale of concern among MPs, especially those focused on disability rights, has left the party grappling with a fractured front on a key domestic issue. The backlash highlights broader tensions between Labour’s fiscal caution and its social justice pledges.

Reaction

The move did little to appease many Labour MPs, including Rachael Maskell, who called the bill a “farce” and maintained her opposition. Charities such as the MS Society remain unconvinced, while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticised the bill as either “pointless” or “damaging”, suggesting Labour has diluted the legislation into ineffectiveness. Campaigners argue the current approach risks both alienating the public and failing to deliver meaningful reform.

What next

The welfare bill now moves to the committee stage, where amendments and scrutiny will intensify. Labour’s leadership faces continued pressure to reconcile internal divisions while defending the bill’s core aims. The review of PIP, due to report by autumn 2025, is likely to shape any future legislative steps, delaying any real changes until after the next general election. How Labour balances credibility on welfare reform with protecting disabled people’s rights will remain a central test of its governance.