Can Burnham avoid another Labour welfare rebellion?

Andy Burnham faces the risk of a fresh Labour dispute over welfare as Alan Milburn prepares recommendations to reduce the number of young people not in work, education or training. The proposals may include cutting benefits for some under-25s, but Labour figures say the approach could avoid the scale of last year’s rebellion if it offers meaningful support and protects people who cannot work.

Last year, 120 Labour MPs threatened to oppose reforms affecting disability benefits, and 49 ultimately voted against the government. Under-25s account for about 11% of Personal Independence Payment claimants; this time, the plan is expected to pair any cuts with upfront employment support and seek net savings over roughly a decade. Some young people who lose benefits could receive other help with living costs, but MPs say they need to see the full package before deciding.