9:50 am today

UK: Benefits backlash, spending cuts, support for Ukraine

From Nine To Noon, 9:50 am today
A handout photograph released by the UK House of Commons shows Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivering a speech on defence and security at the House of Commons, in London, on February 25, 2025. (Photo by House of Commons / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - NO USE FOR ENTERTAINMENT, SATIRICAL, ADVERTISING PURPOSES - MANDATORY CREDIT " AFP PHOTO / HO / HOUSE OF COMMONS"

Photo: AFP / House of Commons

UK correspondent Harriet Line details the backlash for PM Keir Starmer over cuts to welfare spending which could see around a million people in England and Wales lose their disability benefits. 

The Chancellor is due to unveil her Spring Statement next week, which is expected to include multi-pound spending cuts. 

And Downing Street has committed its "unwavering support" for Ukraine, as Russia resists an immediate non-conditional ceasefire.

Harriet Line is Deputy Political Editor of the Daily Mail.