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Skipton MP backs Conservative welfare reform plan

Julian Smith, MP for Skipton and Ripon.

Skipton and Ripon MP Sir Julian Smith has backed a Conservative plan to reform the welfare system.

The plans include changes to benefit eligibility, measures to reduce fraud and error, and support for people moving into work after long periods of unemployment.

Sir Julian said:

“A strong welfare system should always protect the most vulnerable, but it must also be fair to taxpayers and encourage those who can work to do so.

“These proposals would help more people into employment, tackle fraud and abuse, and ensure support is focused on those who need it most.

“At a time when welfare spending continues to rise, it is right that we have a serious plan to make the system fairer, more sustainable and better focused on helping people achieve independence through work.

“Work should always pay, and taxpayers should have confidence that public money is being spent responsibly.”

The Conservatives estimate the package would deliver £36 billion in savings through a series of welfare reforms, including measures to reduce fraud and error, encourage employment and reform benefit eligibility. 

More information on the plan can be read here.

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