UK PM gives full backing to Reeves after she appeared upset in parliament

 UK PM gives full backing to Reeves after she appeared upset in parliament

UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves has come under significant pressure following a series of reversals on proposed welfare reforms that were central to Labour’s economic plans. During a tense session of Prime Minister's Questions, Reeves appeared visibly distressed while seated beside Prime Minister Keir Starmer, sparking public and political concern about her future in government. A Treasury spokesperson declined to provide details, calling it a "personal matter," while confirming that Reeves would be working from Downing Street later that day.

The controversy centers around a key welfare reform bill that the government had to significantly water down to ensure its passage through Parliament. The original proposal promised long-term budgetary savings but was accused of being harsh on vulnerable populations. Several Labour MPs have blamed Reeves for pushing forward policies perceived as cruel, suggesting her actions created unnecessary political and economic complications for the party.

As the reforms were rolled back, it left a large hole in the government’s financial planning, prompting speculation that Reeves may now have to either increase taxes or reduce spending in other areas to balance the books in the upcoming annual budget.

Amid the backlash, opposition MP Kemi Badenoch directly criticized Reeves, describing her as a “human shield” for Prime Minister Starmer’s leadership. The incident escalated tensions in the chamber and cast doubt over whether Reeves would remain in her post. However, Starmer's team later reaffirmed full support for her position.

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Prime Minister Keir Starmer has publicly backed Chancellor Rachel Reeves following a challenging day in Parliament, where she appeared visibly shaken amid intense political pressure. Reeves’s emotional reaction drew widespread attention, especially as it followed the collapse of key elements in the government’s welfare reform strategy. While Starmer did not verbally reaffirm his support during the session, his spokesperson later confirmed that Reeves “is going nowhere” and continues to have the full confidence of the prime minister.

The welfare reforms were initially presented as a key component of Labour’s strategy to generate long-term savings. However, in response to fierce criticism from within the party and across the political spectrum, the government scaled back the proposed changes significantly. This has raised difficult questions about how the Labour administration plans to fill the resulting financial gap, with concerns mounting about potential tax hikes or future cuts to public services.

Some members of the Labour Party have begun to openly criticize Reeves’s handling of the issue. Meanwhile, the opposition, particularly Conservative MP Kemi Badenoch, used the opportunity to launch direct attacks, calling Reeves “miserable” and accusing her of serving as a political shield for Starmer’s weaknesses.

Despite the hostile rhetoric and the apparent vulnerability displayed during the session, Reeves remains in her role and continues to shape the party’s economic policy. Starmer’s press team emphasized that his support has been expressed many times and does not need to be reiterated every time critics question her leadership.

The unfolding situation highlights the growing challenges Labour faces as it tries to balance fiscal responsibility with political sensitivity. For now, Reeves has retained her post, but the political cost of the welfare U-turns and the budget gap will continue to test her leadership and resilience.