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Labour panic as 80 MPs at risk of losing seats at next election over welfare cuts.uk

New analysis suggests dozens of Labour MPs could be ousted in 2029 over the benefit changes.

Sir Keir Starmer

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer (Image: Getty)

Labour fears at least 80 MPs could lose their seats at the next general election over welfare cuts. Analysis suggests almost 200 Labour MPs have a majority smaller than the number of recipients of personal independent payments (PIP) in their constituencies.

Not all recipients will be affected by the changes, but more than 80 of Labour MPs have a majority that is smaller than the number of people who could have their benefits slashed. Those at risk include Health Secretary Wes Streeting, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood and safeguarding minister Jess Phillips.

The data from Disability Poverty Campaign Group has been shared among Labour MPs.

Former shadow employment minister Andy McDonald warned of a “real electoral risk”.

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He told The Guardian: “The Government’s welfare reforms disproportionately hit constituents who can least afford it and that is particularly so in the constituencies of many Labour MPs. It poses a real electoral risk.

“We know people on low incomes spend the money they take home in their local communities, so this policy is sucking money out of our local towns.

“The Government should prioritise its anti-poverty strategy before rushing decisions to reform welfare which harm those in need.”

The Government last month announced a welfare overhaul including tightening of eligibility for Pip, which is the main disability benefit, as Chancellor Rachel Reeves seeks to balance the country’s books.

But the changes, which are expected to be voted on in June, have sparked a backlash from some Labour MPs.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer last week insisted “dignity” is what drives his politics as he defended plans to slash the benefits bill.

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