Burnham says he wants to cut welfare bill 'as soon as we possibly can'

Andy Burnham says he wants to reduce the welfare bill as quickly as possible, but would not guarantee a cut before the next general election, due by August 2029. Welfare spending is forecast to rise from £353bn this year to £431bn in 2031/32. Burnham rejects “crude cuts” and says the aim is to help people into sustainable employment, while the Conservatives accuse Labour of being “addicted to welfare”. Further proposals are expected after November reports on disability benefits and young people not in education, employment or training.