The work and pensions secretary has defended impending reforms to benefits, arguing they are essential for long-term sustainability amid escalating health expenditures. Anticipated changes to benefits, including personal independence payments (PIP) and Universal Credit top-ups, have met resistance, particularly from Labour MPs and charities concerned about vulnerable populations. The reforms are set against dire economic projections, necessitating cost savings for future borrowing and spending. With PIP claims projected to surge, the government adjusts eligibility assessments rather than implementing a freeze, aiming to support claimants in returning to employment while controlling expenditures.
The government insists changes are required to reduce ballooning spending on health benefits, which are predicted to continue rising in the coming years.
Ministers are expected to shelve plans not to raise personal independence payments (PIP), the main disability benefit, in line with inflation next year after pushback from within Labour.
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