Starmer repeatedly fails to say he will cut benefits in PMQs mauling by Kemi Badenoch - after ally's warning that Labour MPs just want to hike taxes for more handouts

Keir Starmer faced a tough grilling from Kemi Badenoch during Prime Minister's Questions, repeatedly avoiding a clear stance on whether he would cut welfare benefits. This comes amid warnings from a Labour ally that the party is seen as wanting to raise taxes to fund more welfare handouts. The exchange underscores the political tensions around welfare policy, with implications for how voters perceive Starmer's leadership and Labour's economic plans. Badenoch's questioning highlights a broader debate on the role of welfare and taxation in national policy.