John Healey promises to reduce welfare bill before next election

John Healey has promised to reduce the welfare bill before the next general election, ruling out “crude cuts” while describing the current system as unsustainable. Welfare spending is forecast to rise by £19bn this year to £353bn, and the OBR expects it to reach £431bn in 2031/32, driven mainly by health-related and pensioner benefits. Reviews of disability benefits and of young people not in education, employment or training are due to be published in November. The government is expected to set out proposals by the end of the year and legislate next year.