Keir Starmer says he was ‘distracted’ by Middle East and Nato during welfare rebellion
- Sir Keir Starmer stated in a Sunday Times interview that he was distracted by Nato and Middle East events during the welfare bill controversy.
- He said he took full ownership of all government decisions but attributed delayed focus on welfare reforms to high-profile international matters.
- Over a hundred Labour MPs opposed the initial welfare reform plan, which sought to reduce certain benefits and achieve annual savings of up to £5 billion.
- Starmer made major concessions, including preserving benefits for around 370,000 current Pip recipients, while acknowledging, “when things don’t go well you carry the can.”
- Polling showed 54% believe Labour has underperformed in office, reflecting challenges in balancing reforms with party unity amid ongoing political pressures.
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Starmer says he was 'heavily focused' on world affairs before U-turn on welfare bill
The prime minister has also defended his decision to U-turn on his welfare bill following widespread opposition by his own MPs. Concessions have been made after significant rebellion over plans to cut sickness and disability benefits.
·United Kingdom
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Starmer: Foreign affairs delayed me dealing with welfare rebellion
He said he was ‘heavily focused’ on what was happening with Nato and the Middle East all weekend.
·London, United Kingdom
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Total News Sources12
Leaning Left3Leaning Right2Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Center
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources are Center
50% Center
L 30%
C 50%
R 20%
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