In a heated exchange in the Commons, Helen Whately, the shadow works and pensions secretary, accused Liz Kendall, the work and pensions secretary, of ‘pinching ideas’ from the Tories with her jobs plan. Whately claimed that Kendall rebranded the WorkWell program introduced under the Conservatives as her own ‘Connect to Work’ scheme. However, Kendall defended her plan, emphasizing the importance of fixing economic inactivity and announcing a new initiative for young people to access education, training, and employment opportunities.
The Tories criticized Kendall’s plan, questioning the lack of substance and reforms in benefits and workplace capability assessments. On the other hand, Kendall highlighted the need to drive down economic inactivity due to poor health and unveiled new funding for various trailblazer areas in England. Additionally, a new national partnership with cultural and sporting organizations was announced to provide opportunities for young people in sports, arts, and culture.
Meanwhile, tensions are rising in Scotland ahead of the budget as concerns about funding shortfalls for public sector staff and calls for bold tax reforms intensify. In another development, Keir Starmer held a meeting with the National Farmers’ Union to discuss farmers’ worries over changes to inheritance tax. Amidst the political controversies, discussions are also underway for an assisted dying bill vote, with a cross-party group of MPs calling for a pause for a full review of policy options.
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