Two cities MP to hold discussion about proposed cuts to disability benefits

Rachel Blake, the Labour MP for Cities of London and Westminster, is to hold two forums this month for her constituents on the Government’s controversial plans to cut welfare benefits.

Blake’s constituency office has written to community organisations saying they will be hosting online and in-person discussions on the Government’s new Pathways to Work Green Paper, which is currently out for public consultation, and wants residents to join the discussion.

Today the Guardian reported that more than 40 Labour MPs have told Keir Starmer that the disability cuts are “impossible to support”.

In a letter the MPs say: “The Government’s Green Paper on welfare reform has caused a huge amount of anxiety and concern among disabled people and their families. The planned cuts of more than £7bn represent the biggest attack on the welfare state since George Osborne ushered in the years of austerity and over three million of our poorest and most disadvantaged will be affected.”

Blake is not one of the signatories to the letter but she has previously said: “Every week, I hear from and help constituents who are struggling to receive the support they need through the benefits system.”

The planned disability benefit cuts would affect 700,000 families and a number of MPs are concerned they are being asked to approve the plans without proper knowledge of the consequences when the legislation is put to a vote in June, reports the Guardian.

Those living in Blake’s constituency who might be affected by the proposed changes to welfare benefits, disabled people, people with health conditions, and disability organisations are encouraged to attend the forums she has arranged.

The forums will take place on: Monday 12 May 7.30pm-8.30pm, online Via Teams — link to be shared with those who register; and Tuesday 13 May 5pm-6pm. Details to be shared with those who register. Please email Rachel.blake.mp@parliament.uk to register.

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