May’s charm offensive to halt revolt over welfare

Theresa May began a charm offensive last night in an attempt to see off a rebellion over Universal Credit.

The Prime Minister met key backbench rebels who threatened to join forces with Labour and attempt to force the Government to stop the roll-out of its flagship welfare reform.

Labour has secured a full day debate today to demand a rethink on the reform and party sources said they expected around 15 Tory MPS to support their motion to pause an acceleration of the roll-out.

However, Heidi Allen, Dr Sarah Wollaston and Johnny Mercer were all silent after meeting with Mrs May in Downing Street yesterday afternoon.

Damian Hinds, the Employment Minister, also hosted a “positive” meeting with MPS last night.