Wes Streeting says growth in state pay-outs for disabilities is “not sustainable”
GB News
Speaking to GB News, he emphasised the Government's focus on ensuring those most in need receive appropriate support while helping others return to employment
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Health Secretary Wes Streeting has warned that the current growth in disability payments is “not sustainable” with 1,000 people signing on to Personal Independence Payments (PIP) every day.
He has indicated that Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall will be announcing reform proposals “in the coming days”.
Speaking to GB News, he emphasised the Government's focus on ensuring those most in need receive appropriate support while helping others return to employment.
“We want to make sure that people who need the most help get the most help, and that other people who are able to work are helped back to work,” Streeting said.
His comments come after claims that PIP – the main benefit for working-age adults – would be frozen rather than increased with inflation.
This would result in real-terms cut for 3.6 million claimants.
On Tuesday, Kendall is expected to announce legislation to introduce a “right to try guarantee” for those on health-related benefits.
This would allow people with disabilities the opportunity to take up employment without the risk of losing their benefits if it does not work out.
Streeting noted that UK employment levels, unlike other leading economies, haven't returned to pre-pandemic levels.
“Our whole focus is getting people back to work,” he emphasised.
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