Starmer Says Welfare Reform Talks Ongoing Amid Backbench Rebellion

Ministers say urgent welfare reform is needed as disability benefit claims surge and costs rise.

Screen grab of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer speaking during Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons, London, on May 21, 2025. House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has vowed that conversations on welfare reform will continue ahead of a crucial vote next week, after 126 of his own backbenchers rebelled against changes.

Speaking in the House of Commons on Thursday, Starmer stressed the need to reform the “broken” welfare system.