The welfare bill, concerning universal credit and personal independence payments, has passed the second reading in Commons with a vote of 335 to 260. This followed significant concessions made by the government to appease critics, which further undermined the authority of Keir Starmer and left work and pensions secretary Liz Kendall feeling humiliated. A key change announced included the removal of a clause affecting personal independence payments, which will now undergo a review by autumn 2026 before any potential changes can be implemented.
The universal credit and personal independence payment bill passed its second reading by 75 votes, 335 to 260, after the government made concessions to appease critics.
Last-minute concessions to the welfare bill further damage Keir Starmer's authority while leaving Liz Kendall humiliated amid ongoing dissent from MPs.
The removal of an entire clause means there will be no immediate changes to personal independence payment, the most contentious part of the bill.
Changes to personal independence payment will only happen after a review, due to report by autumn 2026, co-produced with disabled people.
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