Welcome for change far from universal

Despite significant controversy the roll-out of Universal Credit is continuing to gather pace. While critics, including the SNP, warn the changes will “plunge hundreds of thousands of people into poverty”, the UK Government insists the streamlined benefits system will ultimately help those most at need, while encouraging those who can work into employment.

The aims are laudable, but there are certainly significant and uncomfortable questions surrounding the implementation of a policy that would surely be making even more headlines were it not for the all-encompassing issue of Brexit.

Yesterday there were protests in Fife as the region became the latest area to adopt Universal Credit.

Trade unions and opposition politicians joined forces to decry the system, branding it an attack on the sick and disabled. Moreover, they claim, it will also adversely impact upon those already in part-time work.

Any changes to benefits are likely to be subject to intense scrutiny, and it appears that even a partial U-turn during last month’s UK Budget has done little to dampen the ire of opponents.

Theresa May’s premiership has proved rather fraught thus far and will be unable to withstand too many more blows.

She will be praying that many of the dire warnings surrounding the roll-out will prove to be unfounded.