As the Government struggles to get its welfare reforms through parliament, Green Party MPs have produced a report detailing an alternative approach. They say that the case for “delaying the proposed changes in order to get change right is compelling” and are urging MPs to vote down the reforms later today.

Amongst the proposals Green MPs recommend are:

• Withdrawing the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill
•  Increasing all disability benefits by 5 per cent and Universal Credit and legacy benefits by £40 a week
• Working with Disabled people to co-produce a social security system that is fair, humane and accessible – and which joins up the support for Disabled people to help with additional costs
• Developing interventions that are genuinely good value, lift people up and take an evidence-based approach to supporting people into work
• Learning from the OBR’s assessment and equality impact assessments so any changes deliver on the stated objectives and do not push people into deeper poverty.

Green MP Siân Berry said:

“The Government’s process of bringing forward proposals for change has been marked by chaos. Decision making has been irresponsible, leaving disabled people feeling uncertain and anxious – even terrified. Their voices have not been front and centre of the debate about how to build a better social security system and the proposed changes represent a serious threat to Disabled people’s quality of life, dignity and equality.

“Equalising capital gains tax with income tax would not only help raise funds for welfare payments but also be fairer as currently working disabled people on PIP are paying higher rates of tax on their income than wealthy people living off share dividends.

“Change can be done right if it’s done with Disabled people rather than to them. We urge all MPs to vote against the welfare cuts tonight – let’s work together to create something more compassionate that lifts everyone up and supports the wellbeing of Disabled people.”

Note

The Lifting Up report from the Green MPs was their submission to the ‘Pathways to Work Green Paper’ consultation which closed on 30th June 2025.

Responding to the government’s proposed changes to disability benefits, Green Party MP, Sian Berry said,

“The responsibility is now with other Labour MPs to stand firm in the face of this inadequate offer. Political pressure means a reprieve for some who were set to be cruelly harmed, but this will leave Disabled people, young people and those who will become sick and injured in the future, high and dry. The Prime Minister should withdraw the Bill, take some considerable time to consult with Disabled people and come back with something humane and workable.”