Robin Swann MP opposes welfare cuts in support of amendment to halt Universal Credit and PIP Bill

South Antrim MP Robin Swann

Ulster Unionist Party MP Robin Swann has firmly opposed the Government’s Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Bill, throwing his support behind a cross-party amendment led by Dame Meg Hillier MP.

The proposed legislation, which is aimed at reforming elements of the UK’s social security system, has come under increasing scrutiny for what critics describe as damaging cuts to vital welfare provisions.

In response, Swann announced his support for Hillier’s reasoned amendment, which seeks to “decline to give a Second Reading to the Universal Credit and Personal Independent Payment Bill.”

The amendment acknowledges the need for reform but strongly contests the Government’s current approach, stating:

“That this House, whilst noting the need for the reform of the social security system, and agreeing with the Government’s principles for providing support to people into work and protecting people who cannot work, declines to give a Second Reading to the Universal Credit and Personal Independent Payment Bill.”

“Drawing a red line through the safety net”

Speaking on his decision, Mr Swann expressed grave concerns about the long-term societal and health impact of the proposed changes, particularly on vulnerable individuals and carers.

“Drawing a red line through elements of the social security safety net does not result in a health improvement for those impacted,” he said.

“Those losing their PIP award still require the assistance with daily care they received the benefit for needing. Those who qualify for carers allowance by providing 35hrs of care per week will still need to provide the same level of care, only now they must work as well.”

Swann, a former Health Minister in Northern Ireland, emphasised the broader implications of the cuts, warning that the proposals would exacerbate poverty and health inequality across the UK.

“The greatest driver of health inequality is poverty, and these proposed changes magnify that negative impact creating a greater burden on the health sector,” he continued.

“These changes will drive homelessness, they will remove the life chances of children forced to give up education at 16 to work to support parents with long-term illness having spent much of their childhood as carers.”

Call for compassionate reform

While acknowledging the need for systemic change, Mr Swann urged ministers to approach reform with compassion and comprehensive planning, rather than piecemeal reductions.

“The system needs reform, but it must start from first principles of no-one being left behind. Do it right, start with blank sheet and design a better system, taking a red pen to a failed system doesn’t make it better,” he said.

The proposed Universal Credit and PIP Bill remains a focal point of political debate as welfare groups, opposition MPs, and health campaigners call on the Government to reconsider its current approach and prioritise long-term support over short-term savings.