Lib Dem tensions rise ahead of benefit vote
A second Liberal Democrat MP, John Leech, said he would join former children's minister Sarah Teather in defying the party whip and vote against the change.He said:
I voted against the Welfare Reform Bill, and I find it objectionable that the Tories are using 'Skivers v Strivers' rhetoric to justify a cut to seven million working families.I strongly support raising the tax threshold for low-paid workers, but this cut will wipe out much of that good work.
Ms Teather was the first to break ranks, saying the measure would make poverty "significantly worse".
MPs vote in favour of Government plan to cap benefits
MPs have voted in favour of a Government measure to cap benefits rises. The Work Secretary says it will save £5bn from the welfare bill.
DWP: 1% benefits cap could save £1.1 billion
The Department for Work and Pensions has calculated the savings that the exchequer could expect if the benefit cap passes this evening.