UK benefit cap begins today
UK benefit cap begins today
A controversial cap on the total amount of benefits that people aged 16 to 64 can receive has today come into force across England, Scotland and Wales.
Couples and lone parents will now receive no more than £500 a week, while a £350 limit applies to single people.
The cap has been introduced as part of the government’s biggest overhaul of the benefit system since World War 2.
Jobseeker’s allowance, child and housing benefit have all been included in the cap.
Changes to the benefit system have been spearheaded by Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith, who argues the current level of benefit, discourages people from looking for work.
Critics say the cap fails to tackle underlying issues, such as the difficulty of finding work, the cost of housing and regional differences.
The National Housing Federation (NHF) agrees with the principle that those on benefits should not earn more than those in work, but it argues that the cap does not work in London and the South-East, where rents are high.
Those affected by the cap have their housing benefit reduced.
The NHF wants to see housing costs removed from the cap, which will be completely implemented by 30 September.
Tony Evans - Tokyo 