Tories target universal credit claimants in plan condemned as ‘fast track to poverty’

The Conservative party proposes cutting universal credit payments by a third for claimants who haven't paid enough national insurance, and restricting purchases of alcohol/tobacco via a dedicated debit card. Charities condemn this plan as a 'fast track to increased poverty,' arguing it will hinder job-seeking efforts.
Why it matters
This policy proposal could significantly impact the financial well-being of vulnerable individuals in the UK, potentially increasing poverty and sparking social debate about welfare reform and its effectiveness.
Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, said welfare had to be a safety net, ‘not a lifestyle choice for those who can’t be bothered’. Photograph: Jacob King/PA Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, said welfare had to be a safety net, ‘not a lifestyle choice for those who can’t be bothered’. Photograph: Jacob King/PA Conservatives Tories target universal credit claimants in plan condemned as ‘fast track to poverty’ Proposals aim to push people into work, but charities say families are still paying price of austerity cuts and rise in cost of living
Prefer the Guardian on Google People claiming universal credit (UC) would have their payments cut by a third if they have not paid enough national insurance, under a Conservative plan condemned by one charity as “a fast track to increased poverty”.
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