Labour Faces Fresh Backbench Pressure Over Special Educational Needs Reforms Ahead of White Paper


Labour is facing renewed internal strain after reports that a group of backbench MPs have raised serious concerns about the government’s planned reforms to special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), due to be set out in a forthcoming white paper.
Several MPs are understood to be warning that the proposed changes could leave vulnerable children and families facing reduced support, longer waiting times and greater uncertainty in local provision. Critics inside the party say they want clearer guarantees on funding, safeguarding and accountability before the proposals are finalised.

Downing Street has not confirmed the scale of the internal opposition, but party sources insist ministers are continuing discussions with MPs and education stakeholders to refine the plans before publication.
The dispute underlines growing sensitivities within Labour over how quickly and how far major public service reforms should go, particularly in areas affecting children with complex needs and their families.