Benefits cuts – live: Minister insists cabinet is ‘united’ as Labour set to slash billions from welfare bill

Kemi Badenoch criticized the government's handling of the economy, questioning the need for an emergency budget following the Chancellor's recent budget announcement. Sir Keir Starmer defended Labour's economic record, highlighting record investment, interest rate cuts, and rising wages under their leadership. The government's proposed overhaul of the benefits system, including changes to Pip eligibility, has sparked backlash for being seen as targeting the poorest in society to balance public finances. Full Article

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights report presented at the Human Rights Council emphasizes the urgent need for systemic reform of mental health systems, advocating for a shift towards holistic and community-based care. The report addresses challenges such as stigma, coercive practices, and discrimination faced by individuals with psychosocial disabilities, stressing the importance of aligning legislation with human rights standards to ensure equitable access to mental health services globally. There is a call for...

Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have resulted in the deaths of at least five Palestinians, with the Israeli military targeting a Hamas military location in the north. The attacks were renewed after both sides accused each other of violating a ceasefire, leading to increased tensions and casualties. Israel dropped evacuation leaflets in Gaza, warning residents of "dangerous combat zones" and stating that the onslaught was "just the beginning" as the conflict escalated further. Full Article

Labour minister Torsten Bell defended government benefit cuts by accusing left-wing critics of supporting a failed Tory welfare system that contributes to high unemployment rates. Former shadow chancellor John McDonnell refuted Bell's claims, stating that proposed cuts would harm disabled individuals. Labour MPs, including Clive Lewis and Debbie Abrahams, criticized the government for implementing £5bn in cuts by 2030, potentially impacting millions of disabled individuals negatively. Full Article

The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force is now leading an investigation into an arson attack on Tesla vehicles, with President Trump labeling the perpetrators as "domestic terrorists." The attack, which occurred at a Tesla facility in Las Vegas, involved Molotov cocktails and gunfire, damaging five vehicles and setting two ablaze. Local officials believe the incident was a targeted act of vandalism in protest of Elon Musk's job cuts and the dismantling of the federal government...

A recent analysis by Action for Children has revealed that scrapping the two-child benefit cap could lift 600,000 children out of poverty in the next five years, at a cost of £3.9bn per year. The charity argues that this move is the most cost-effective policy option to improve the lives of children, compared to other measures to increase parents' income. Labour is currently working on a child poverty strategy led by Liz Kendall and Bridget...