Louise Haigh MP for Sheffield Heeley said:

“The original proposals to cut disability benefits caused real concern for millions of people, including across Sheffield. I welcome the changes the Government announced last week, which will protect the incomes of nearly 400,000 people and remove the anxiety around losing PIP and Universal Credit.

“The measures we have voted for tonight include uprating the Universal Credit health element in line with inflation; to bring forward improved employment support; and the guarantee that those who will never be able to work will continue to receive the support they need.

“Most importantly, the Government has announced that no changes will be made for new claimants until the outcome of the Timms Review, which will be co-produced with disabled people’s organisations.

“This means the Bill now commits the Government to improving a system that currently fails many disabled people – and to delivering support that helps those who can work, into work, as quickly and fairly as possible.

“I am pleased that the Government has listened and responded to the concerns raised by disabled people, their representative organisations, and MPs. I believe there is now a route forward that can command the support of the country and the Parliamentary Labour Party – and one that puts Labour values at the heart of the Government’s approach.”