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'Get on and do it': McFadden urges Labour MPs to back welfare overhaul as a 'moral crusade'

From the Newshound archive · first published 27 September 2026 · last updated 28 September 2026.

'Get on and do it': McFadden urges Labour MPs to back welfare overhaul as a 'moral crusade'

Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden took to the party's Liverpool conference to tell Labour MPs that ducking responsibility for a far-reaching benefits shake-up was no longer an option. He cast the overhaul as a 'moral crusade', arguing for a move away from the question of 'what are you entitled to' and towards supporting claimants in living fuller lives. Two government-commissioned reviews — one covering young people aged 16 to 24, the other disability payments — are due this autumn and will require difficult decisions.

Keir Starmer was forced into a humiliating U-turn on £5bn-a-year disability benefit cuts after a mass Labour backbench rebellion last year.

Burnham has promised to get 'really serious' about the ballooning welfare bill, but ruled out what he called 'crude cuts'.

MoreThe TelegraphMcFadden tells welfare rebels that system must changeDaily Mail NewsPat McFadden pleads with Labour MPs 'get on and do it' as he tries to rally backing for welfare overhaul as a 'moral crusade'The GuardianChanging UK benefits for young people a ‘moral crusade’, says ministerLabourListPat McFadden sets out plans to put work and opportunity at heart of welfare – his speech in full - LabourListDaily Mail on MSNMcFadden pleads with Labour MPs 'get on and do it' as he tries to rally backing for welfare overhaul
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