Jeremy Corbyn has expressed his disapproval of Sir Keir Starmer’s benefit cuts, labeling them as a «disgrace» and urging the government to reconsider their decision.
During an interview with Sky News’ Politics Hub with Sophy Ridge, the former Labour leader criticized the prime minister for implementing austerity measures and highlighted the discontent among many of his former colleagues.
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This criticism comes ahead of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s spring statement on Wednesday, where she is anticipated to announce additional spending cuts following the £5bn reduction in the welfare budget last week.
Corbyn emphasized the need for Reeves to reconsider the cut to personal independence payments (PIP), warning of the adverse effects it will have on individuals being pushed into poverty and others forced to leave their jobs to care for them – often impacting women and families.
As an independent MP, Corbyn proposed the implementation of a wealth tax on the wealthiest members of society to generate revenue – a move supported by three-quarters of the British public, according to a recent YouGov poll.
He expressed disappointment in the Labour Party’s performance in government, stating, «I never imagined a day where a chancellor would announce a £5 billion reduction in the income of the most economically vulnerable disabled individuals in our society. It is appalling.»
The government’s argument for welfare reforms revolves around the unsustainable expenses related to long-term sickness and disability benefits, with additional measures aimed at increasing employment rates.
Despite the government’s justification, Reeves has faced criticism for trying to recover approximately £10bn in lost fiscal headroom to balance the budget, attributed to global instability and poor economic growth since the October budget.
Anticipated in the spring statement are substantial departmental spending cuts within Whitehall, with the argument being made for the necessity of these measures for efficiency purposes.
The government has consistently denied claims of a return to austerity, citing recent «efficiency savings» such as the abolition of NHS England and the elimination of 10,000 civil service jobs.
‘Return to austerity’
However, Corbyn argued that despite ministers avoiding the term «austerity,» the reality of the situation remains the same.
He pointed out, «When you mention taking percentages – whether it’s 7% or other figures – from the department’s budget, what does that entail?
«Efficiency alone cannot achieve all that. It signifies job losses, service cuts, or a combination of both.»
When asked if he considered this austerity, Corbyn affirmed, «Yes, because it essentially involves austerity measures that reduce public expenditure at the expense of the most vulnerable in our society.»
‘Labour MPs upset’
Corbyn disclosed that Labour MPs who were initially hesitant to engage with him after his transition to an independent MP are now expressing their dissatisfaction, urging them to voice their concerns instead of deflecting responsibility.
Addressing criticism regarding his leadership during the party’s significant election defeat, Corbyn defended the 2019 manifesto, emphasizing its clear objectives to tackle homelessness, rental affordability, and poverty in society.
While acknowledging the prime minister’s shift away from these policies, Corbyn refrained from labeling him as a chameleon.
He noted, «There are numerous chameleons in parliament. It revolves around how a government should address the society we inhabit.
«If you are content with the prevailing levels of poverty… that’s your stance. I am not. I believe most Labour MPs do not endorse such conditions. This is their opportunity to instigate significant change. It appears to me that they are trying to evade responsibility.»
You can view the complete interview on the Politics Hub with Sophy Ridge at 7 pm.