Why young people should get fewer welfare benefits, according to Milburn review of UK workforce politics
Proposed changes to benefits
The review is expected to propose removing under-25s’ entitlement to the health element of universal credit and to personal independence payment (Pip). A standard-rate youth allowance would replace those benefits.
Under the reported plans, people with disability-related additional needs would receive a separate allowance that is not means-tested. Those with severe disabilities who cannot work would qualify for a higher rate.
Review focuses on work barriers
Milburn’s review has been examining why young people face barriers to entering the workforce and how to respond to the rising number classified as not in education, employment or training. That group currently numbers about 981,000 across the UK.
Burnham addresses climate summit
At the opening of Cop31 in Turkey, Andy Burnham reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to its 2050 net-zero emissions target and called for an affordable shift to clean energy. He cited windfarms and electrified steel factories as domestic projects.
Burnham said the world would breach the 1.5C target and announced Madeleine Alessandri as the UK’s first special representative for climate security. He also urged industry to help people on all incomes make the green transition.
Key points
- The Milburn review is expected to propose replacing key sickness and disability benefits for under-25s with a youth allowance.
- About 981,000 young people in the UK are classified as not in education, employment or training.
- Burnham reaffirmed the UK’s 2050 net-zero commitment at Cop31 in Turkey.