Labour MPs have no reason to oppose new welfare reforms, says minister

Pat McFadden: ‘I see no reason Labour MPs should not support welfare reform that puts work and opportunity at its heart.’ Photograph: Aaron Chown/PA

Labour MPs have no reason to oppose a fresh government attempt to overhaul the welfare system, the work and pensions secretary has said, as he unveiled a £1bn youth employment scheme.

The announcement by Pat McFadden, who said the public wanted the system to promote work and “value for money”, is regarded as a prelude to a renewed effort to change the welfare system after plans by his predecessor, Liz Kendall, were blocked by a Labour backbench rebellion last year.