The objectives of current UK policy for welfare reform are in conflict: on the one hand, the Government’s determination to drive down the deficit with major cuts to public expenditure; and on the other, the introduction of a new system of welfare intended to protect claimants from poverty, provide clear work incentives and make work pay. The programme of across the board cuts to public services nevertheless shows the axe falling disproportionately on social welfare provision and Universal Credit is not exempt. Against this background and with high unemployment Universal Credit is destined not to work.
Centre for Social Justice (2009) Dynamic Benefits: Towards Welfare that Works. London: CJS.
3.
DWP (2010) Universal Credit: Welfare that Works, Cm 7957, Norwich: The Stationery Office.
4.
DWP (2011a) Universal Credit Policy Briefing Note 13. Extending conditionality under Universal Credit to working claimants: Safeguards within the new regime. Available at: http://www.dwp.gov.uk/docs/ucpbn-13-conditionality-safeguards.pdf (accessed 19 April 2012).
