The Labour government’s plan to cut benefits for disabled people, announced by Secretary of State Liz Kendall, has faced significant backlash. The measures, which aim to save £5bn annually, include stricter eligibility criteria for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and cuts to incapacity benefits. Kendall argues these measures are necessary to tackle a system that is currently failing those it intends to support and to help more people into work. However, many critics and charities have expressed deep concerns over the impact these cuts will have on vulnerable individuals, warning of increased poverty and harm to those who need such support the most. Meanwhile, the broader political landscape continues to feature significant international events, including tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East, a tragic school shooting plot thwarted, social commentary on father figures from Gareth Southgate, and unexpected delays in the return of NASA astronauts from the International Space Station.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/global/2025/mar/19/tuesday-briefing-the-devastating-toll-of-labours-disability-welfare-cuts