Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Personal Independence Payment Review

Monday 26 January 2026 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • The steering group for the Personal Independence Payment review consists mainly of disabled people with relevant claiming experience.
  • Monthly progress updates will be published to ensure transparency throughout the review process.
  • The increase in Personal Independence Payment claims has outpaced the rise in disability rates in the UK.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Toby Perkins Lab Chesterfield
Benefits & Welfare
Context

The number of people eligible for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) support has expanded beyond initial intentions, and there are concerns about the check-box approach that has led to disrepute in the PIP regime.

Question

It is clear that the number of people with conditions making them eligible for personal independence payment support has expanded far beyond what was initially intended. Many disabled constituents desperately need this support. What reassurance can my right hon. Friend give us that, after his review, we will have a system considering individuals rather than using a check-box approach?

Answer from The Minister for Social Security and Disability (Sir Stephen Timms)

The steering group appointed is made up overwhelmingly of disabled people, many currently claiming Personal Independence Payment or having done so in the past. The review is co-produced with transparency and openness; monthly letters will be published to show progress and determination.

Answered
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Q2 Lee Anderson Reform Ashfield
Benefits & Welfare
Context

The UK reportedly has one of the highest disability rates in Europe, prompting a need for clarification on statistics and policy implications.

Question

Could one of the Ministers explain why the UK has one of the highest rates of disability in Europe?

Answer from The Minister for Social Security and Disability (Sir Stephen Timms)

While there has been an increase in the incidence of disability, the incidence of benefit claiming has grown more than the increase in disability rates. This is one reason for undertaking the review to ensure fairness and fitness for the future.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Figures cited by the hon. Gentleman were not directly addressed.

How: Not Addressing Specific Figures

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