Labour Minister faces backlash over unmentioned welfare cuts
A BBC Breakfast host questioned Labour Cabinet minister Pat McFadden about the government's planned welfare cuts. The host, Jon Kay, accused Labour of not being transparent enough. He highlighted that the party's election manifesto did not clearly mention these cuts. Labour is set to release a green paper outlining ways to save billions on benefits amid economic challenges. Some Labour MPs are expected to oppose the measures. Reports suggest that up to 80 MPs may vote against the cuts, which could impact disability benefits. Kay challenged McFadden, asking why the party did not communicate its intentions more openly. McFadden responded that the government aims to help people return to work. He acknowledged the increasing number of people applying for benefits but emphasized the need for a sustainable welfare system. McFadden insisted there is no division within Labour's leadership regarding the proposed cuts. He stated that without changes, spending on benefits could reach £70 billion a year by the end of the decade. He expressed the need to address these issues to reduce dependency on welfare.