Starmer Stands by Tears-filled Reeves.

Prime Minister's Questions Highlights Chancellor Rachel Reeves' Emotional State

During Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) on Wednesday, Chancellor Rachel Reeves appeared visibly upset. This emotional display sparked various reactions from both Conservative and Labour politicians.

Reeves' Personal Matter

Reeves expressed distress over a personal matter, which her spokesperson declined to elaborate on. Her visible distress during the session prompted comments from both her colleagues and the opposition.

Conservative Leader's Criticism

Conservative Leader Kemi Badenoch criticized the government's handling of welfare policies, accusing them of making costly U-turns. She claimed that the government's welfare reforms would ultimately cost money rather than save it.

Labour's Response

Labour leader Keir Starmer defended the government's welfare reforms, arguing that they would benefit working people. He claimed that the Conservatives had broken the welfare system and were now attempting to fix it.

Changes to Welfare Bill

Following Starmer's concessions during yesterday's PMQs, the welfare bill was significantly amended. The original plan to save £5 billion a year by 2030 has been reduced to an estimated £1.7 billion. The government has also promised to raise basic universal credit at a cost of £1.8 billion.

Other Highlights

• Starmer accused the Conservatives of voting against fixing the welfare system despite promising to do so.
• Badenoch claimed that 1,000 people are signing on to incapacity benefits daily since Starmer became prime minister.
• Starmer countered that the Conservatives' welfare reforms resulted in more people needing support.