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Tories would prevent long-term jobless spending benefits on alcohol and cigarettes
Developing
In Short: The Conservative Party has proposed a new welfare reform that would restrict long-term jobless benefit claimants from spending their welfare payments on alcohol, cigarettes, and gambling.
The party also aims to make it harder to claim sickness benefits, which they say would encourage more people to look for work.
Spending on benefits has ballooned in recent years and is forecast to rise to £408.6bn in 2030/31, according to figures from the Department for Work and Pensions.
The party's economy spokesman, Robert Jenrick, said the Tories had left record numbers on long-term benefits and the proposals 'won't even put a dent' in the welfare bill.
Under the proposals, anyone fit to work would receive six months on full benefits to find a job.
Background
Among African American and Hispanic women, those living with HIV for 15 years or more are nearly four times as likely to experience depression, especially if they practice self-silencing.
African American and Hispanic women living with HIV for 15 years or more are nearly four times as likely to experience depression during the pandemic.
What's still developing
- The Tories said loading the "Subsistence Allowance" onto a pre-paid card, with restrictions on what the money can be spent on, would ensure taxpayers' money supports claimants with essentials like food.
- The Conservatives have promised to prevent long-term jobless benefit claimants from spending their welfare payments on alcohol, cigarettes and gambling.
- This reduced rate would be paid onto a "Back to Work" card, which would not allow cash withdrawals or spending on these items.