Update on Second Reading of the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Bill

Yesterday 01st July 2025, MPs voted on the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Bill at its Second Reading. I wanted to update you on its progress and explain the position I have taken so far.

There is wide recognition that the current welfare system is not working as it should. Designed by the previous government, it often traps people in a cycle—forcing them to say they will never work again just to access support, only to then be left without enough help. That is not right, and I support the Government’s aim to change it.

Many of you have shared your concerns and experiences with me through surveys, emails and conversations, making clear how important PIP is. I raised these concerns with the Government, both in writing and in a meeting with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Liz Kendall.

While waiting for the Government to make changes, I added my name to a reasoned amendment calling for a pause to the Bill’s progress—particularly over Clause 5. This amendment was signed by over 100 Labour MPs, showing concern within my party. I also signed a private joint letter to the Government, also supported by over 100 Labour MPs, pressing the Government for changes to the Bill.

Clause 5 would have required someone to score at least four points in a single descriptor to qualify for PIP, a change that many feared would leave people in need without support.

Today, I am pleased that the Government confirmed Clause 5 will be removed during the committee stage. They have also made clear that there will be no changes to PIP eligibility, activities or descriptors until the current review concludes, with a commitment to finish that work by autumn next year. This is a significant and welcome shift.

Because of these assurances—and the removal of the most concerning part of the Bill—I felt able to vote in favour at Second Reading. The Bill includes positive measures, such as the new Right to Try Guarantee, which will protect people on health and disability benefits who want to try work without risking their support.

I also welcome the above-inflation increase to Universal Credit. This will mean around £725 more per year for a single person over 25 by the end of this Parliament. It is a much-needed boost for certain households in the Forest of Dean and across the country.

The Bill now moves to the committee stage, where it will be looked at in more detail. It will return to the House for a final vote at Third Reading next week. I will only support it then if the promised changes are delivered and if the final package creates a fairer, more compassionate welfare system.

I am sorry it has taken so long to reach this point—especially to my constituents who have written to me in fear or with concerns—but I am glad the Government has finally started to listen. The fact that changes are now being made shows that disabled people, and the charities that represent them, are being heard. But they must continue to be heard, and I will keep doing all I can to make sure their voices remain at the centre of this discussion.

If you or someone you love will be affected by these changes—or has ideas that should shape the PIP review—please get in touch with me at matt.bishop.mp@parliament.uk.

I want your voice to be heard.