Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to restrict access to Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits for young people as part of a crackdown on the rising welfare bill. The new Labour leader, who succeeded Sir Keir Starmer on Monday, faces pressure to reform the system with backing from key party figures.
Blunkett backs benefit limits for young people
Former Home Secretary David Blunkett told the I paper that Burnham is prepared to limit benefits for young people. He said Burnham is "wholeheartedly" behind welfare reforms and recognises the need to address the growing welfare bill.
Blunkett stated: "There’ll need to be very difficult decisions about entitlement. What is it you need, rather than do you need money?" He confirmed that Burnham supports Alan Milburn's final report, expected in early September, which will outline proposals to get young people into training or employment.
Milburn Report and Timms Review
The Milburn Report is entering its "solution" phase, with final recommendations to be submitted before summer ends. Separately, the Timms Review is examining Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and will file its recommendations in November.
Government response
A DWP spokesperson said: "Tackling youth joblessness is a priority for this Government, and Alan Milburn’s work is central to that mission. We’re already delivering the biggest youth employment reforms in a generation, backed by £2.5bn to create 500,000 opportunities for young people to earn and learn."
