The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to scrap a key benefit allowing disabled people to lease cars, as part of Chancellor Rachel Reeves's first Budget, with Whitehall sources suggesting it was seen as an 'easy win on welfare'.
From Online Campaign to Budget Policy
Revealed in last week's Budget, the move to cut the Motability Scheme for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) recipients marks a significant shift. The policy reportedly originated from right-wing online campaigns before being adopted by the Conservative opposition and now the Labour government.
In her statement, Chancellor Rachel Reeves defended the decision, stating the scheme 'was set up to protect the most vulnerable, not to subsidise the lease on a Mercedes-Benz'. This comes just a month after Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch pledged to restrict the scheme to those with 'serious disabilities', controversially adding that the vehicles were 'not for people with ADHD'.
Political Pressure and a 'Scandal' Labelled
The policy has drawn sharp criticism from disability advocates and political opponents. Reform UK's welfare spokesperson, Lee Anderson, labelled Motability an 'absolute scandal', nostalgically suggesting a return to state-provided 'blue three-wheelers'.
However, sources within the Treasury have pushed back against claims they were unaware of the right-wing pressure, confirming to the Guardian that the scheme was indeed identified as a target to 'get a win on welfare'.
Real-World Impact on Disabled People
Experts and campaigners have warned of the profound consequences of the cut. Jill Rutter, a former Downing Street civil servant now at the Institute for Government, explained how issues gain political traction, noting the danger of reacting to social media trends where 'lots of it is junk or distorted'.
Cat Whitehouse, co-chief executive of Transport for All, highlighted the practical necessity of the scheme. 'You need a solid-built car to be able to take the heft of a wheelchair hoist', she said, criticising the government for listening to populist rhetoric rather than all of society.
The decision underscores a hardening political consensus on welfare spending, with the Motability Scheme becoming a symbolic battleground. The move leaves thousands of PIP claimants facing uncertainty over their future mobility and independence.
