Amid a growing backbench revolt, the PM’s welfare reforms faced a forced U-turn on benefits cuts, with Labour rebels compelling concessions and sparking fresh scrutiny in Parliament.

The PM is in a final push to secure backing from rebel MPs ahead of a key welfare vote, as fresh figures indicate thousands may remain at risk of poverty despite concessions and renewed calls to scrap the two-child benefit cap.

Under a new government plan, weight-loss jabs will be offered through pharmacies to clinically obese individuals, aiming to reduce long waiting lists for specialist care and encourage supermarkets to promote healthier food choices.

Starmer is prepared to soften planned benefit cuts to placate internal Labour opposition, with No 10 maintaining that the legislation will still be pursued while stressing the need to overhaul the welfare system.