Healey promises reduction in welfare bill before next election
Summary
Chancellor John Healey said the government will reduce the benefits bill before the next general election, but ruled out crude cuts and has not yet set out detailed reforms. Two reviews due in November will inform proposals that the government plans to publish by year-end, with legislation expected next year.Key Facts
- Welfare spending is forecast to rise by £19 billion this year to £353 billion.
- The Office for Budget Responsibility projects welfare spending will reach £431 billion in 2031/32, driven mainly by health-related and pensioner benefits.
- Healey said helping young people who are not in education, employment or training could reduce welfare spending over the long term.
- A review of disability benefits and a review of young people not in education, employment or training are due to be published in November.
- The government expects to respond to the reviews by the end of the year and publish legislation next year.
- The government has pledged to reform the state pension triple lock from 2030.
- Conservative and Reform UK politicians criticised the Budget for not setting out more detail on welfare reform.
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