Ministers on lobbying blitz to avoid Labour rebellion over Send changes

Government has learned lesson' of botched welfare overhauls but MPs say they will not back cost-saving measures

Ministers have learned the lesson" of botched welfare changes and are on a sustained lobbying blitz of Labour MPs over an overhaul of special educational needs, Labour MPs told the Guardian, as they said they would not back measures aimed at saving money.

The changes will raise the bar at which children in England qualify for an education, health and care plan (EHCP), which legally entitles children with special educational needs and disabilities (Send) to get support. Plans will be reserved for children with the most severe and complex needs, according to sources familiar with the proposals.