'Yes, we reclaimed the tapestry, but what about the fabric of society': Labour's power without purpose and the crisis of meaning

Another week, another problem. Or two. Or three.

This time, after floating plans to slash disability benefits, Labour turned its steely gaze to another soft target: the educational rights of children with special needs.

And yes, critics were quick to identify the familiar scent of a cost-cutting exercise — one that, once again, involved quietly scaling back the role of the state under the guise of "reform."

The focus this time was Education, Health and Care (EHCP) plans — legally binding documents that force local councils to provide tailored, often expensive, support for children with complex needs.

Labour has not ruled out revising (read: curbing) these plans, which would just so happen to ease pressure on council budgets currently buckling under the weight of their legal obligations.

The first problem is that the SEND budget is eye-wateringly high and still rising, with councils warning they simply cannot afford to meet the statutory demands. Many are already teetering on the brink of financial collapse.

The second problem is that MPs have been deluged with letters from anxious parents, terrified their children are about to be short-changed by the party that promised a new era of compassion, fairness and that all-too familiar words, “Change.”.

It all feels horribly familiar.