Corbyn blasts Government’s ‘illogical’ welfare policies in speech at rally

THE Government is on a “completely illogical path” with its welfare policies, Jeremy Corbyn has told his supporters.

The Labour leader attacked plans to close Jobcentres and benefits offices as he addressed a rally in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire.

Trade union members are protesting against the shutdown of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) centre in the town, which could see 250 workers moved to Motherwell and Glasgow.

The Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union has raised concerns about the impact on the local economy.

The shutdown is part of a wider plan to close processing sites and Jobcentres across the UK.

Addressing crowds of union members and protesters outside a shopping centre, Mr Corbyn called for the closure programme to be halted.

He also criticised UK government reforms to the benefits system – including the introduction of Universal Credit aimed at streamlining claimants’ payments – and the use of sanctions.

“There are those that would seek to divide those who work behind the counter or at a call centre in a Jobcentre from those on the other side who need that help and need that support, and often need that advice,” he said.

“The fact that we are all here together today in unity in opposing that closure and opposing those job losses shows the kind of world, the kind of society, that we want to live in.

“The Government is on some completely illogical path at the present time. They are bringing in universal credit with all the problems associated with that.”

A spokesman for the DWP said: “The changes we are making to our estate across the country will offer a more efficient service and deliver good value for the taxpayer – saving over £140m a year for the next 10 years.”