Burnham backs welfare reform but sets no spending target

Politics · First reported 3 Nov, 16:25 · Updated 17:16

Image: Wikimedia Commons · NASA Johnson Space Center / Jonny Kim · Public domain

Andy Burnham said he wants welfare spending to fall but declined to specify an amount, arguing that changes should help people move into work rather than begin with a cuts target. The article also reports that welfare spending is forecast to rise and that two reviews are under way.

Burnham said he wants welfare spending to fall but would not name a target, favouring an approach centred on helping people into work.
He described changes to support for young people as part of his approach; the article says reviews are examining disability benefits and routes into work, training or education.
Welfare spending is forecast to reach £431 billion by 2031–32, according to the article.

Summary written by Lux AI from 2 articles

Key facts

Burnham's stated goal: He wants welfare spending to fall but did not give a target.
Forecast for 2031–32: Welfare spending is forecast to reach £431 billion.
Reviews: Two reviews are examining aspects of the welfare system.