Labour MP Criticizes Welfare U-Turn as Unethical Two-Tier System

A disabled Labour MP has criticized Keir Starmer’s U-turn on welfare reform, calling it unethical and warning of a two-tier system. Olivia Blake, one of nine MPs with a disclosed disability, expressed concerns about rushed changes to the welfare bill. She highlighted the lack of engagement with disabled people and the potential harm of the proposed system.

Ministers faced a rebellion over the bill, leading to concessions such as exempting current disability claimants and increasing support. Despite these changes, Blake believes more needs to be done to avoid future consequences for claimants. She emphasized the importance of not compromising the limited support disabled individuals rely on.

Blake criticized the government for not consulting disabled people earlier and stressed the need for their voices to be heard. She highlighted the frustration of disabled MPs being sidelined in decision-making processes. Blake, who has personal experience with the disability benefits system, shared her own struggles with the Pip application process.

Her rejection for Pip despite her conditions raised concerns about the system's effectiveness and impact on disabled individuals. Blake emphasized the toxic nature of the current system and called for a more supportive approach. She urged her colleagues to prioritize the well-being of disabled people over political games.

According to the source: The Guardian.