PM to defy rebels with disability benefits shake-up

SIR Keir Starmer vowed to press ahead with welfare changes — despite the threat of a massive Labour rebellion which could humiliate the Government and torch his plans.

- By David Williamson and Katie Harris

The planned curbs to benefits will have a “catastrophic” impact on disabled people, charity Scope has warned.

But the Prime Minister insisted there is a “clear moral case” for change - claiming the present welfare system “traps” people.

MPs are due to vote on Tuesday over proposals to limit eligibility to disability and sickness-related benefits payments as part of a bid to save around £5billion a year by 2030.

But more than 100 Labour MPs have signed an amendment which could derail the Government's plans.

James Taylor of the disability charity Scope urged ministers not to push through changes which would limit eligibility for the Personal Independence Payment and limit the sickness-related element of Universal Credit.

He said: “It will have a catastrophic effect on disabled people’s health, ability to live independently or work.