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Keir Starmer chairs cabinet meeting as government faces rising cost of working-age people on sickness and disability benefits
Keir Starmer is presiding over an extended cabinet meeting today, which includes a standard cabinet session followed by a political cabinet. This format allows ministers to tackle various governmental challenges within a political context. Notably, the meeting will not take place in Downing Street; instead, it is reportedly being held at a location in Whitehall, offering a change from the usual setting.
One pressing issue that the government must confront is the increasing expenditure related to working-age individuals receiving sickness and disability benefits. A recent inquiry conducted by the House of Lords Economic Affairs Committee revealed that approximately 3.7 million working-age individuals are currently on health-related benefits—a rise of 1.2 million over the past five years. The financial burden of incapacity and disability benefits has reached nearly £65 billion, exceeding government spending on defense.
The Department for Work and Pensions is expected to release a green paper soon outlining potential reforms. In a recent interview with Anushka Asthana from ITV News, the work and pensions secretary, Liz Kendall, shared some insights into her strategies. While her goal is to facilitate a smoother transition for more individuals into the workforce, some of her statements may cause concern among current benefit recipients.
Kendall suggested that many who believe they cannot work due to their conditions might indeed be capable of employment given the right support. In response to a DWP survey indicating that nearly 49% of benefit recipients feel they may never return to work, Kendall noted:
It’s understandable why individuals might feel this way, especially when they’re awaiting treatment or lacking adequate support from job centers. Moreover, there’s a necessity to generate more jobs in regions where they are most needed. I recognize the magnitude of the challenges we face.
I genuinely believe that many of these individuals could enter the workforce. Even if we focus solely on those who express a desire to work, there are significant gaps we must address to assist their reintegration into the job market.
Kendall emphasized the urgency of addressing the fact that two out of five benefit recipients are currently awaiting treatment on NHS waiting lists. This is why Health Secretary Wes Streeting has devised an extensive plan aimed at reducing these backlogs and providing necessary assistance.
She also remarked that there are individuals claiming sickness and disability benefits who are “taking the mickey.” When asked if she shared the view that some claimants may be feigning their inability to work, Kendall responded:
Conversations with individuals today reveal that many of them have just lost jobs they cherished and are eager to resume working once their health stabilizes. It’s crucial to acknowledge that many do wish to work.
Although there will always be those who inappropriately claim benefits, we must address this issue effectively.
She pointed out that younger generations may need to recalibrate their perceptions of work. In response to a question about whether certain conditions have been excessively medicalized, with young individuals taking time off due to anxiety—something previously considered incidental—Kendall stated:
There is undoubtedly a concern among many young individuals, especially those impacted by the pandemic. A culture has emerged where simply performing daily job responsibilities is viewed as overwhelming.
However, she acknowledged that the situation is nuanced.
During a visit to a local supermarket, I observed both commendable initiatives to assist young people facing genuine mental health challenges and instances where managers expressed concerns about young employees struggling with basic expectations like punctuality and managing work hours. Adjustments need to be made, as this is simply part of the work experience—it shouldn’t be equated with stress or pressure.
So, the narrative isn’t black and white; the realities of life are inherently complex.
Details surrounding the discussions from today’s extended cabinet meeting remain unclear, but a lobby briefing is scheduled for 11:30 AM. Additionally, the government is anticipated to announce the demolition of Grenfell Tower within the day.
Updates regarding today’s proceedings will follow as details emerge.
Former ambassador to Washington Karen Pierce appointed special envoy to the western Balkans
Dame Karen Pierce, the former UK ambassador to the United States, has been appointed as the special envoy to the western Balkans, according to reports from PA Media. Pierce held the position of UK’s chief diplomat in Washington since 2020, recently passing the baton to Peter Mandelson, and served as the UK ambassador to the UN prior.
Pierce is set to begin her new role in the spring, taking over from Lord Peach, ahead of a significant summit with leaders from the western Balkans, which the UK will host in the upcoming autumn.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy expressed confidence in Pierce’s capabilities, stating: “With her experience and expertise, Dame Karen Pierce is the ideal person to drive this important work forward. I would like to extend my thanks to Lord Peach for his dedicated service in advancing UK interests in the western Balkans over the last three years.”
Turn2us, an organization dedicated to alleviating poverty, has criticized Kendall for her remarks suggesting that some individuals receiving disability and sickness benefits are “taking the mickey.” Shelley Hopkinson, the head of policy and influencing at Turn2us, responded:
The language and narratives surrounding this issue foster fear, stigmatization, and doubt, making it increasingly challenging for individuals to seek necessary support. Many express trepidation over making mistakes, feeling lost, and sometimes resigning themselves to forgoing claims altogether.
The focus should shift to the lived experiences of those reliant on this support, rather than concentrating on those who may exploit the system. We need a framework that provides security, dignity, and the necessary assistance for individuals to sustain themselves.
No 10 defends ‘independence’ of International Criminal Court after Trump imposes sanctions on it
Downing Street remains cautious in commenting on decisions made by President Trump, opting not to provide continuous updates on governmental activities. However, during a lobby briefing, a strong message was conveyed that Keir Starmer will neither withdraw the UK from the International Criminal Court (ICC) nor impose sanctions on its officials due to its stance on Israel, as Trump has done.
When asked about Starmer’s perspective on the U.S. sanctions, the spokesperson stated:
This ultimately falls under U.S. jurisdiction. It’s important to note that the UK and U.S. administrations have traditionally held differing views on the ICC; for instance, the UK is a signatory to the Rome Statute while the U.S. is not.
As for the UK, we actively support the ICC’s independence and do not plan to sanction its personnel.
Our primary focus is on ensuring the sustainability of the ceasefire in Gaza, facilitating the flow of vital aid to the region, and working toward the release of all remaining hostages. We are collaborating closely with the U.S. at various levels to achieve these objectives.
Grenfell Tower to be demolished, Angela Rayner confirms
The remains of Grenfell Tower, where 72 lives were tragically lost in a fire, are set to be demolished over two years, commencing after the eighth anniversary of the 2017 disaster, as confirmed by the government. Jamie Grierson provides updates on the situation.
For further information, please refer to the full statement issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Christopher Hope, political editor for GB News, shared insights on social media regarding today’s lengthy cabinet meeting and Downing Street’s decision not to provide a public summary of its discussions.
It strikes me as peculiar that Sir Keir Starmer has directed his cabinet to convene at a secret location today. The previous Conservative administration rarely adopted such measures, even during its most tumultuous times. A confident government would not resort to this method, particularly in the wake of Labour’s recent electoral victory just months ago.
UPDATE Starmer is set to engage top cabinet ministers in a six-hour meeting at an undisclosed central London site—two hours for the political cabinet followed by four for the official cabinet. Traditionally, Downing Street offers an overview of cabinet discussions, however, a spokesperson indicated that there would be no official summary for today’s extended meeting, a departure from the norm.
‘Huge loss to Welsh politics’ – colleagues pay tribute following death of former Plaid Cymru leader Dafydd Elis-Thomas
Dafydd Elis-Thomas, the ex-leader of Plaid Cymru, has passed away at the age of 78, as announced by his family. According to PA Media, Lord Elis-Thomas, who led Plaid from 1984 to 1991, died at home following a “short illness.”
His family released a brief statement requesting privacy during this time. Lord Elis-Thomas represented the Dwyfor Meirionnydd constituency in the National Assembly—now recognized as the Senedd—from its establishment in 1999 until 2021, serving as its first presiding officer.
Before this, he served as the MP for Meirionydd and later Meirionydd Nant Conwy from 1974 to 1992, before being named a member of the House of Lords in 1992.
After leaving Plaid in 2016, he continued as an independent member, contributing to both Carwyn Jones and Mark Drakeford’s governments.
Plaid Cymru’s current leader, Rhun ap Iorwerth, honored his memory, stating:
Dafydd’s passing represents a significant loss to Welsh politics and our civic community.
He was undoubtedly one of the most pivotal figures of his time, and as the first presiding officer, he played a crucial role in establishing the foundations of devolution.
We remember Dafydd for his pioneering spirit as the youngest MP in Parliament in 1974 and for his leadership of Plaid Cymru with great commitment.
He was not only a leader but also a personal friend to my family, and he played an influential role in my early life.
His unwavering love for our nation, its language, and its culture will always be remembered.
On behalf of Plaid Cymru, I extend heartfelt condolences to Dafydd’s family.
Attorney General Lord Hermer criticized for past comments calling British empire racist
Lord Hermer, the attorney general, faces ongoing scrutiny, particularly following a recent opinion piece published in the Times that raises challenging questions for him.
A long-time colleague of Keir Starmer and junior barrister to him in numerous cases, Hermer’s appointment as attorney general has been met with surprise, especially since others, like Emily Thornberry, were expected to be favored for the role. Notably, he is the first attorney general in over a century not to already hold an MP or peerage status.
Hermer has encountered continued criticism from Conservative circles, partly due to his prior association with prominent figures like Gerry Adams. Additionally, his reluctance to disclose times when he has recused himself from certain governmental decisions has drawn ire.
His left-leaning perspectives have only intensified scrutiny, particularly after he remarked previously that the British Empire was fundamentally racist, a view echoed in today’s Telegraph piece.
Hermer stated, “Racism impacted almost every element of [the British Empire],” commenting on how the prevailing attitude was that the imperial construct was a benevolent endeavor, which he argued was based on flawed, racist ideologies regarding superiority over other nations, provoking sharp reactions from figures like Iain Duncan Smith.
A more critical perspective comes from Patrick Maguire’s column in the Times, which reveals increasing frustration among ministers regarding Hermer’s impact on decision-making, positing that his commitment to international law has created challenges for domestic political strategies.
Amidst the turbulence, Starmer is anticipated to reorganize his cabinet around May, prompting speculation about Hermer’s job security. Despite their friendship, political pressures could necessitate a reevaluation of his role.
Maguire highlights that there is a growing expectation among some within the government that Starmer may act if required by shifting political landscapes, indicating that the legal framework that previously seemed robust is starting to appear outdated if it no longer aligns with governmental needs.
Fishing rights will not derail EU-UK security pact, says European Council president
The president of the European Council, António Costa, has assured that fishing rights will not interfere with the upcoming security and defense agreement between the EU and the UK, addressing concerns about potential disputes affecting broader cooperation.
Miliband says government considering backing Acorn project to help support Grangemouth workers
Ed Miliband, the energy secretary, mentioned that the government is contemplating the possibility of accelerating a carbon capture and storage initiative in Scotland, which could potentially secure jobs at the Grangemouth oil refinery.
According to PA Media, the Grangemouth site is slated for closure, with Petroineos notifying several of its 400 employees of impending redundancies. A pipeline connects this location to the proposed Acorn carbon capture project in Aberdeenshire, and fast-tracking development could play a pivotal role in preserving employment in the area.
This procedure would transport carbon dioxide emissions produced at Grangemouth to the Acorn project, where it would be stored beneath the North Sea in subsea rock formations.
The UK government has already allocated funds for similar carbon capture efforts in Merseyside and Teesside, yet there has been criticism from Scottish First Minister John Swinney regarding inadequate support from Westminster for the Acorn initiative.
During an interview on Times Radio, Miliband stated he would “obviously look” at any proposals to expedite this project as a means of ensuring a future for Grangemouth. He elaborated:
Our goal is to establish a sustainable future for both the Grangemouth site and the community surrounding it.
We are currently collaborating with the Scottish Government on “Project Willow,” an extensive strategy that will be unveiled this month, aimed at leveraging Grangemouth’s resources for maximum benefit.
Carbon capture and storage and sustainable aviation fuel are among the potential components of this initiative.
In her recent ITV interview, Liz Kendall asserted that the government’s focus on reducing NHS waiting lists would contribute to managing the escalating costs of working-age sickness and disability benefits.
However, in a recent correspondence directed to Kendall regarding inquiry findings, the Lords Economic Affairs Committee stated there was “no convincing evidence” that NHS waiting times are the primary cause of increasing benefit claims.
The committee highlighted that any systemic issues within benefits should be reevaluated, emphasizing the necessity for a framework that effectively protects individuals facing health issues while also facilitating return to employment. There are concerns that the current system may unintentionally incentivize claims while providing insufficient support for job placement.
This week, Pippa Crerar, the political editor for the Guardian, accompanied Foreign Secretary David Lammy during his visit to Ukraine, and she discussed the experience in a special Politics Weekly UK podcast.
Miliband says he will abide by ‘collective responsibility’ on Heathrow expansion – but won’t say he’s personally in favour
Ed Miliband has reportedly voiced reservations about the government’s support for a third runway at Heathrow during a cabinet meeting prior to Rachel Reeves’ confirmation of the plan in her speech.
In a morning interview, Miliband indicated he would adhere to “collective responsibility” regarding the decision without explicitly stating his personal support.
When pressed on his stance, he emphasized:
I’m part of a government that wishes to solicit applications from Heathrow for a third runway, provided it satisfies rigorous environmental criteria and aligns with our carbon budgets.
Being a part of the government means abiding by collective responsibility.
Further inquiries regarding his opinion yielded similar responses, reinforcing that he was part of the decision-making process, which was articulated by Rachel Reeves as a collective government resolution.
In any administration, certain ministers may not align with specific policies, but Miliband’s remarks were not deemed improper or disloyal.
Earlier in the week, while defending the Heathrow decision in the Commons, Miliband stated:
Any expansion in aviation must occur within the constraints of our carbon budgets and environmental responsibilities.
I’d also like to point out that our government’s advancements over the past six months surpass what the previous cabinet achieved in 14 years.
We’ve lifted the ban on onshore wind, approved nearly 3GW of solar power projects, established GB Energy, initiated the National Wealth Fund, and conducted the most successful renewable auction recorded.
Clearly, this administration is committed to the growth of clean energy.
Amidst the discourse on Heathrow expansion, some Labour MPs dedicated to achieving net-zero goals opt not to vocally oppose the decision, holding the belief that, in practice, the third runway is unlikely to materialize.
Government says plans to force landlords to improve energy efficiency could save renters £240 per year
The government has proposed a requirement for landlords to adhere to adequate energy efficiency standards in residential rentals by 2030. Under the proposed measures, all private landlords in England and Wales would be mandated to reach an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of at least C by the end of the decade, up from the current minimum of EPC E.
Authorities state that these proposals could lead to average annual savings of £240 on energy costs for renters while potentially lifting around half a million households out of fuel poverty, as they would no longer need to spend excessively on heating poorly insulated homes.
Landlords will have flexibility in how they meet these energy standards, with options including loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and double glazing. They may also consider investments in solar panels, batteries, smart meters, or low-carbon heating solutions such as heat pumps.
The government suggests a cap of £15,000 on landlord expenditures, beyond which no further spending would be required for compliance with the EPC C rating. There’s an option of a reduced cap of £10,000 for landlords who set lower rents or possess homes classified within lower council tax bands.
Officials highlighted existing support programs for heat pumps and other energy efficiency initiatives, including the boiler upgrade scheme and local grant programs aimed at improving insulation and renewable energy installations.
With nearly 48% of rental properties already attaining an EPC C rating, the government aims for broader compliance while asserting that this policy will not escalate rent prices for tenants.
The estimated average compliance cost for landlords is projected between £6,100 and £6,800 by the year 2030.
Previous proposals mandating landlords to achieve EPC C ratings by 2028 were revoked by former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak when he rolled back various green policies in September 2023, a move welcomed by landlords but criticized for impairing tenants’ financial situations.
Commenting on the plans, Ed Miliband affirmed, “If you rent a home and pay your rent, you deserve to live in a well-insulated house.”
Miliband insisted that landlords should bear a significant portion of these costs, emphasizing that it is both fair and necessary.
Boris Johnson one of most damaging PMs in history, says Reform UK chair
According to Zia Yusuf, chair of Reform UK, Boris Johnson ranks among the “most damaging prime ministers in the history of the UK.” Jamie Grierson provides further details on this perspective.
Source
www.theguardian.com