Politics
Tories propose cutting Universal Credit by a third for claimants lacking national insurance
September 23, 2026 at 10:08 PM
Coverage
3 reports · over 3 hours
BNBBC News
Newspaper headlines: 'RAF jet crash escape' and 'Tories to cut benefits'
(opens the publisher’s site)
TGThe Guardian
Tories target universal credit claimants in plan condemned as ‘fast track to poverty’
(opens the publisher’s site)
BNBBC News
Tories would prevent long-term jobless spending benefits on alcohol and cigarettes
(opens the publisher’s site)The Conservatives have proposed cutting Universal Credit by a third for claimants lacking sufficient national insurance contributions, paid onto an alcohol- and tobacco-restricted card.
- Claimants fit to work would receive six months of full Universal Credit before dropping to a 70% "Subsistence Allowance."
- Reduced payments would be loaded onto a "Back to Work" card blocking spending on alcohol, tobacco, gambling, and cash withdrawals.
- Kemi Badenoch said welfare "must be a safety net for those who genuinely need it, not a lifestyle choice for those who can't be bothered."
- A Labour spokesperson called the card scheme "unworkable," saying the party had failed to reform welfare during 14 years in government.