Bridget Phillipson has spoken out in support of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, as pressure mounts within the Labour Party ahead of a critical Commons vote on proposed welfare reforms. The education secretary insisted Starmer would remain leader through to the next general election, despite increasing speculation over his future. Speaking to The Independent as Labour approaches its first anniversary in government, Phillipson acknowledged recent challenges but said better times lie ahead.
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The prime minister has faced a turbulent week, marked by a backbench revolt over welfare cuts and controversial admissions in recent press interviews. While the government has softened some elements of the reforms, Labour MPs remain divided. Phillipson argued that the revised package addresses key concerns, describing the measures as necessary to improve employment support for young people and those currently excluded from work or training.
Dissent within Labour has grown, with warnings from some MPs that Starmer could face a leadership challenge if the party performs poorly in upcoming elections. Speculation over potential successors, including health secretary Wes Streeting, has intensified, although he dismissed such talk as “mischief making.” Nonetheless, senior backbenchers suggest that either Starmer or chancellor Rachel Reeves may be forced to step down depending on how the welfare vote unfolds.
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Phillipson highlighted the government’s achievements in its first year, including raising the minimum wage, expanding childcare provision, and introducing free school meals and breakfast clubs. She emphasised that meaningful change takes time, noting that these reforms would not have been possible under a Conservative or Reform UK government. Stressing the need to deliver on the public’s expectations, she pledged that Labour would continue working to improve life chances for families and communities across the UK.
