Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced an overhaul to the benefits system will be unveiled by the Labour Government before the Spring Budget during her speech to “kickstart economic growth” in Oxfordshire this morning.
Reeves revealed the Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall will outline changes to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), impacting those on payments such as Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment (PIP), as part of a benefits clampdown.
These changes to the social security system come as part of the Government’s wider plans to bolster the economy following the pandemic and get more people back into work.
During her speech, the Chancellor said: “Growth isn’t simply about lines on a graph, it is about the pounds in people’s pockets, the vibrancy of our high streets and the thriving businesses that create wealth, jobs and new opportunities for us, for our children, and grandchildren. We will have succeeded in our mission when working people are better-off.”
Among the senior Labour figures in the audience during the Chancellor’s speech included Environment Secretary Steve Reed, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander and science minister Lord Vallance.
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The Chancellor unveiled her plan to “kickstart economic growth”
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Despite the focus of the Chancellor’s speech being on improving GDP, she confirmed that “fundamental” reform to Britain’s welfare system is on its way, which will lead by Kendall.
Specifically, Rachel Reeves cited that the Government ministers will be “looking at areas that have been ducked for too long, like the rising cost of health and disability benefits”.
According to the Chancellor, the Work and Pensions Secretary will break down the Labour’s plans for widespread reform ahead of the Spring Budget, which is set for March 26.
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