As you will know from my Facebook and Twitter updates, I am currently at the Conservative Conference in Birmingham.
It is quite an unusual conference, somewhat sombre, apprehensive even. Yet there is still an optimistic feel - of what might be - if the economy is sorted.
The main theme of the conference so far has been sorting out the economy and welfare reform: Chancellor George Osborne has announced that Child Benefit will be stopped for those on highest incomes. He has also stated that no workless family - unless they are disabled or sick - will ever get more benefits than a working family gets in average wages.
Welfare Secretary Iain Duncan Smith is to set out plans which will see the benefit system simplified into one universal benefit. The reforms will allow people to retain some of their benefits as they gain work. This will incentivise the jobless as they look for unemployment and lift them out of the poverty trap, as they will not lose out financially by having all their benefits removed.
It seems to me that this is very much a welfare policy based on "each according to his need". Benefits should go to those who need them most. They should also act as a spring-board - a ladder of opportunity for those seeking work.
I don't think Osborne has stopped child benefit for those on the highest incomes, Rob.
ReplyDeleteHe's stopping benefit for couples with joint income of around £87,000 a year, who each earn £43000 odd, at around £87,000 a year.
yet for those couples where just one partner works, Osborne has stopped child benefit at almost £44000.
That seems to me to be hugely unjust.
Completely agree with the above comment - it all seems a little crazy and unjust. I hope this will be looked at again.
ReplyDeleteThe benefits system - about time this was looked into as we have lost a whole generation thanks to Labour. Working allows you to gain self respect, working gives you a reason to get up every day. Most important the state will no longer support peoples addiction problems.
Well done IDS you have worked tirelessly to ensure a fairer society. There will be a backlash however I feel that most of the country will see sense & support you.
Patsy