Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, whether it is her Department's policy that local authorities will be required to subsidise the loss of (a) PIP and (b) Universal Credit Health Element to disabled people.

Our plans are designed to protect the most vulnerable and give disabled people equal chances and choices to work. We will always work to ensure that the most vulnerable and severely disabled people are protected and consider how best we can support people as we bring forward reforms – which is why we have put protections on the face of our Bill.

We are very mindful of the impacts of PIP eligibility changes and that is why we are consulting on how best to support those who may lose entitlement. It is why we have committed that existing claimants who lose eligibility as a result of these changes will continue to receive PIP and its associated benefits and entitlements for 13 weeks following their award review. This transitional cover is one of the most generous ever and more than three times the length of protection provided for the transition from DLA to PIP. We are investing £200 million in 2026/27 to ensure everyone who loses PIP is guaranteed access to an adviser to help with work, health and skills support.

As set out in the Green Paper and the Bill, we are taking further action to protect people with most severe, lifelong conditions. We will ensure this group are protected from future reassessment for Universal Credit entitlement and paid the higher rate of the Universal Credit health top-up so they can live with dignity and security.

We are also working closely with DHSC as we develop the detail on these policies, to ensure eligible health and care needs are met. We will continue to consider the wider impacts of reforms including on local authorities. Further details on these changes will be set out in a White Paper in the Autumn.