No fresh tax increases are on the horizon, but cuts to benefits and public spending are widely expected, raising concerns among lawmakers about the potential fallout for those reliant on government support.

Sweeping cuts to disability and welfare allowances, targeting anxiety and depression claims among younger recipients, are being proposed to save an estimated £5bn, sparking intense debate among officials, mental health advocates, and the public.

Rachel Reeves faces mounting pressure to secure backing for planned disability benefit reforms, as key figures including the Work and Pensions Secretary and senior colleagues question the potential impact on vulnerable recipients while the PM offers only cautious support.

Liz Kendall’s proposed changes to disability benefits, including tighter eligibility rules and revised support measures, have sparked growing resistance from backbenchers despite No 10’s concessions, amid fears these plans could disproportionately impact vulnerable individuals.