Lat month, we published a poll asking readers “Would Labour be better than the Conservatives for disabled claimants?”
We asked the question because Labour almost completely ignored the issue of benefits in their manifesto. It left many claimants wondering whether this was because Labour were largely sympathetic but don’t want to provide a target for the right-wing press or whether it is because they have nothing positive to say to claimants.
In the absence of hard evidence, we thought it important to give people a chance to share how they were interpreting the silence.
Almost 2,500 people took part in the poll. The results were:
1 Labour will be supportive of disabled claimants. 20%
2 Labour will be less harsh than the Conservatives. 39%
3 Labour will be as harsh as the Conservatives. 34%
4 Labour will be harsher than the Conservatives. 7%
So, overall 59% of readers think that Labour will be better than the Conservatives and 41% think they will be just as harsh or even harsher.
It isn’t a overwhelming vote of confidence in Labour, but clearly the majority of respondents think that a Labour government would be an improvement.
Many hundreds of readers left comments explaining their approach to the coming election. Some even managed some optimism:
“… Vote tactically, wherever you are (see stopthetories.vote) and we could see the Liberal Democrats become the official opposition to Labour. Just imagine how much Ed Davey would highlight the problems facing the disabled and carers.”
Chantelle
“Labour will spend on Public services that matter to disabled people, including the nhs, so although they haven’t said much on benefits I believe there will be positive changes to come under a Labour government, including disability benefits.”
Anne
Lots of commentors said they would be voting Labour but with very little hope or optimism:
“We know for DEFINITE that the Tories will try to abolish PIP payments, and make ESA far harder to qualify for. We do NOT know what Labour will do. Therefore, if Labour get into power there is a chance that things will NOT be as bad as if the Tories remain in power. Consequently, it is VITAL to vote out the Tories! Sadly, Labour is our only hope.”
Faith
“labour wont be any worse than the torys i will vote labour and hope for the best”
Gareth
For others, Labour’s silence on most benefits issues was cause for real alarm:
“If there is minimal information (though comments by various shadow ministers do seem somewhat worryingly indicative) then it is almost certainly because "Labour" intends to continue with the general policy of the Tory administration ... or inflict worse .... but would rather not advertise that oppressive similarity till after the election.“
Timewarp
“No news is not always good news. I feel labour is not commenting much on any benefits issues as they are likely to stick with at least a number of measures that conservatives have already started, as in the short term at least it will lead to savings.”
Jennet00
And for some, there seemed no hope from any party:
“… sorry but yes I think Labour can be worse or at least as bad, that is not to let the Tories off in any shape or form, but sadly I have no faith in any political party to deliver absolutely anything. We are voiceless at the ballotbox our vote counts for nothing …”
Elizabeth
You can read hundreds more comments from claimants here.
