Lib Dems Tell Swansea Labour MPs to Grow a Backbone Over Welfare Cuts

Welsh Liberal Democrat Swansea Councillor and Senedd candidate for Gŵyr Abertawe Sam Bennett, has responded to the news that just three Welsh Labour MPs have signed a reasoned amendment to stop the Government’s welfare cuts by stating that Swansea’s Labour MPs need to grow a backbone and stand up for the interests of their constituents.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats have pointed to evidence they uncovered last month showing that Wales is set to be the worst hit by Labour’s welfare cuts.

In both Swansea and Neath Port Talbot, at least 90% of people claiming the standard rate of Personal Independence Payment for daily living activities are at risk of losing at least some of the payment.

The Liberal Democrats have repeatedly criticised the proposed cuts to PIP payments and attempts by those in Labour and the Conservatives to mislead the public into thinking these are unemployment benefits when, in fact, the payment supports many disabled people staying in work.

The Party have also highlighted how Torsten Bell, MP for Swansea West and Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Pensions, opposed welfare cuts when he worked for the Resolution Foundation, but is now supporting them as a Government minister.

Only 3/27 Welsh Labour MPs have joined the 108 Labour rebels in signing the reasoned amendment (Steve Witherden – Montgomeryshire, Ruth Jones – Newport West, & Henry Tufnell – Mid and South Pembrokeshire).

Not a single one of Wales Labour’s MPs from Swansea and the Gower or Neath have signed the amendment despite the region being set to be so badly hit.

Commenting, Welsh Liberal Democrat Swansea Councillor and Senedd Candidate for Gŵyr Abertawe (Gower and Swansea) Sam Bennett said:

“Swansea and Neath’s Labour MPs really need to grow a backbone and do what is right for their constituents and for Wales.

“Torsten Bell was happy to oppose welfare cuts when he worked for the Resolution Foundation, but now, when he’s been parachuted into Swansea and in a position to do something, he is silent.

“We all agree that welfare fraud should be tackled, but that’s not what the proposed changes do. Instead, they will cut the support that helps people with daily tasks that many of us would take for granted, such as staying clean or staying safe.

“This support actually helps many disabled people stay in work.

“I think it’s disgraceful that our area is set to be one of the hardest hit, yet none of our Labour MPs are willing to speak out.

“If these cuts go ahead, all it will do is move the financial burden onto local council services and charities, which have already been cut to the bone and are struggling to make ends meet. The Liberal Democrats will continue to oppose these cuts.”