Sinduology reports on a Newham MP’s role in controversial benefit changes

Three campaigners with banners — Sinduology (middle) with Crips against Cuts

Sir Stephen Timms, East Ham MP, is leading the Labour Government’s widely criticised plans to reform disability benefits. He has now confirmed that no changes will be made until an assessment is completed over the next year — a direct result of the growing public outcry and sustained pressure from disabled people and their allies.

In a recent letter to me, the Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen confirmed: “No changes will be made to the PIP eligibility criteria until the end of the assessment which I shall lead, and co-produce with disabled people and disabled organisations.” This report is due to be completed by Autumn 2026.

His letter confirms how after recent protests the Labour government was forced to make concessions over its controversial plans for reform of the benefits system. The government website confirms existing PIP recipients will not be affected by the new eligibility criteria proposed for 2026.

On 30 June, Disabled People Against Cuts organised a peaceful rally to Stop Disability Benefit Cuts. I attended the rally, which was well supported by both the disabled community and our allies. I saw representatives from organisations such as Disability Rights UK, Crips Against Cuts, TUC Disabled Workers’ Committee among others.

People had come from across the UK, including Northern Ireland and Scotland. We had strong support from MPs including Richard Burgon, Jeremy Corbyn, and Diane Abbott. These MPs spoke passionately about how they had heard the emotive stories of disabled constituents and the adverse impact these cuts would have on their lives. They stood with us against the proposed disability cuts.

On 1 July, Rachel Maskell tabled a key amendment, and 42 MPs supported it. Sadly, the second reading of the bill still passed by 335 votes to 260. But the protests did lead to a government climbdown.

The initial ‘4-point rule criteria’ has also been removed as part of the concessions made by the Labour government. This is a definite win for the disabled community.

However, we must continue to keep the pressure on the government. For further information: www.dpac.uk.net

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