Tory minister speaks out in opposition of her own Government’s proposed cuts

Amber Rudd, minister for climate change, has become the most senior Tory to join opposition to the Government’s plans to cut money going to local welfare assistance.

The scheme is in place to provide help to low-income families who face a sudden financial crisis, brought on by homelessness, domestic violence, flooding, illness or any other economic problems. However, the Coalition is proposing that they will get rid of the funds going to local welfare assistance by April.

Although Rudd is in favour of local government making cuts, she reportedly explained to BBC Sussex the reason for her opposition to these plans: “we all locally who care about the most vulnerable in society are fighting very strongly to make sure the government reconsiders.”

Rudd joins a body of other Tories, including numerous council leaders who are asking the Government to reconsider their plans. They have also met opposition from the charities Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG), the Children’s Society and Crisis, the LGA, who have written a join letter condemning these cuts to local welfare.

Meanwhile, Jon Ashworth MP, Shadow Cabinet Office Minister has said Rudd’s disagreement with potential Government policy shows the fractures within the Tory party:

“It is surely incompatible for a Minister to campaign against the Government and remain a part of it. If David Cameron had any authority left, Amber Rudd would not be able to get away with campaigning against her own Prime Minister’s policies.

“This once again underlines David Cameron’s growing weakness. Even his own Ministers know the damage his decisions are doing and want him to change path.

“After defections, retiring MPs and membership haemorrhaging, this is the latest sign that David Cameron has lost control of his party.”