The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has moved to reassure Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claimants after abandoning a planned tightening of the benefit's eligibility rules.
Clause Scrapped Following Cross-House Concerns
The government has formally removed a contentious clause from the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill. This follows significant pressure from Members of Parliament across the political spectrum. The clause, known as Clause 5, would have introduced a new minimum points threshold for the daily living component of PIP.
Labour MP Sir Stephen Timms, who is leading a comprehensive review of PIP for the DWP, confirmed the change. He was responding to a written question from Conservative MP for Mid Bedfordshire, Blake Stephenson, who had queried the financial impact of the proposed PIP Bill.
Sir Stephen stated in the House of Commons: "As I set out in the House of Commons on 1 July 2025, this Government has listened to the concerns raised by Members from across the House regarding the proposed changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP)."
What Was Proposed and Why It Changed
The now-scrapped Clause 5 would have amended the legal framework for PIP assessments. Specifically, it would have required claimants to score a minimum of four points in at least one daily living activity to qualify for the daily living component of the benefit. This proposed change had sparked fears of significant cuts for many existing claimants.
"In light of the concerns raised, we have removed clause 5 from the Bill in Committee," Sir Stephen Timms confirmed. This decision represents a notable shift in the government's approach to the impending welfare shake-up.
Future Changes to Be 'Co-Produced' After Full Review
The minister emphasised that any future alterations to PIP will now follow a thorough and inclusive review process. Sir Stephen Timms is personally leading this review, which promises to incorporate a wide range of perspectives.
"Any changes to PIP eligibility will come after a comprehensive review of the benefit, led by myself and co-produced with disabled people, the organisations that represent them, clinicians, experts, MPs and other stakeholders, so a wide range of views and voices are heard," he explained.
The stated aim of this review is to ensure the PIP assessment is fair and fit for the future. This approach suggests a move away from sudden legislative changes towards a more consultative model.
Understanding Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
For context, PIP is a benefit designed to help with the extra costs associated with long-term health conditions or disabilities. It is comprised of two components:
- A daily living part for those who need help with everyday tasks.
- A mobility part for those who need help with getting around.
Eligibility is not means-tested, meaning individuals can claim PIP even if they are working, have savings, or receive other benefits. The level of award depends on how a person's condition affects them, as assessed through a points-based system.
The government's latest move indicates a pause for reflection on this critical support system, with future reforms dependent on the outcome of the co-produced review.
