Ministers Draw Up Plans for Mini-Reshuffle in Case of Rebellion Over Welfare Changes

The government is intensifying efforts to quell a rebellion over welfare cuts, with whips stepping up contact with MPs and strategists drawing up plans for a mini-reshuffle in case of resignations.

- Eleni Courea Pippa Crerar Kiran Stacey

Ministers are taking a carrot-and-stick approach by offering extra support for people who face losing their benefits while warning MPs of the consequences of rebellion.

Several MPs said government whips were strengthening efforts to persuade them to toe the line after Liz Kendall, the work and pensions secretary, extended an olive branch to critics by promising extra protections for vulnerable people.

Some MPs said there had been suggestions the vote on the cuts would be treated as a confidence issue, with those rebelling facing suspension or even deselection, but No 10 and government sources have categorically denied this.

A senior government source said plans were being drawn up for ministerial appointments at the lower ranks that could be made if any front-benchers resigned to vote against the welfare bill.

No 10 is keen to reward new MPs who have made an impression since the general election was held nearly a year ago.