Reform would cut benefits for EU nationals and hike NHS immigration surcharge'

"A Reform UK government would block EU nationals from receiving universal credit, a move that would rip up the post-Brexit trade deal with Europe and risk potential retaliation from Brussels. It is among several proposals that will be announced by Nigel Farage at a press conference on Tuesday. The party claims its measures would save 25bn a year in total enough to cover the supposed shortfall faced by Rachel Reeves in next week's budget."

"According to a Reform statement released on Monday night, all overseas nationals including those with EU settled status would lose the right to claim universal credit after a three-month notice period, which the party said would save 6bn a year. EU nationals plus citizens from the European Economic Area and Switzerland were able to apply for settled status under the terms of the Brexit deal, allowing access to public services and some benefits."

Reform UK proposes blocking EU and other overseas nationals from claiming universal credit after a three-month notice period, estimating savings of £6bn a year. The package targets total savings of £25bn annually through measures including capping overseas aid at £1bn and almost tripling the NHS surcharge paid by non-UK residents. The proposals would unilaterally remove elements of the post-Brexit settlement that granted settled status to EU, EEA and Swiss citizens. Ending parts of the settlement without negotiation could provoke reciprocal action against UK nationals in the EU and potential trade retaliation that could harm the UK economy.

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