We have had a really clear example of the value of courage and compassion in politics this week.
The government’s reversal on cuts to disability benefits was brought about by individual MPs standing up for what they believed in, irrespective of the consequences for their own individual careers.
This took real courage. No loyal MP wants to vote against its own leadership - particularly when it is being attacked in the press and slipping in the polls. No MP wants to risk their career and advancement in a party by speaking out. And yet over 100 Labour MPs were willing to put their constituents and their consciences first.
You might have seen an article by our CEO for LBC on Sunday arguing against the cuts, it was read by over 54,000 people.
As it says, it’s shocking that Labour — for so long the party of the most vulnerable — tried to rush through cuts without proper consultation, and before even seeing the official assessment of their impact.
The government is turning the most vulnerable into targets: disabled people, asylum seekers, parents on benefits, the elderly. It’s a continuation of the politics of division, when what these precarious times demand is unity, care, and vision.
Compassion in Politics is in Parliament speaking to MPs and Ministers to try to make this shift happen.
We already have 10% of MPs actively supporting our work. Many more are crying out for Labour to anchor itself to its core values. They, like us, want it to prioritise compassion, protecting the most vulnerable and tackling inequality.
This week has shown that the Government will listen if enough MPs speak up for compassion.
If you believe, as I do, that this change is essential, please consider making a donation today. Your support helps us keep campaigning for a politics of care.
With thanks and solidarity,
Compassion in Politics