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Data on the immigration status of individuals claiming universal credit (UC) has been released, marking the first time such information has been made public. In June, approximately eight million people received UC, with 83.6% of them being British or Irish nationals. Over a million claimants were born outside of the UK, including around 700,000 EU citizens who came to the UK before Brexit and have the right to reside and work in the country. A small percentage of claimants, about 1.5%, were classified as refugees, while 0.7% had entered the UK through safe routes designed for individuals from places like Ukraine and Afghanistan.
Despite typically not being eligible for benefits, more than 75,000 temporary residents in the UK are currently claiming UC. The Department for Work and Pensions has been approached by the BBC for additional details on this matter. Statistics dating back to April 2022 show that the percentage of claimants born overseas has remained relatively consistent, fluctuating between 15% and 17%, while the total number of individuals on UC has increased from 5.5 million to 7.9 million during this timeframe.
Following demands from certain members of the Conservative party and independent MP Rupert Lowe, the figures were eventually released. A spokesperson from Downing Street indicated that the prime minister aims to reduce the number of unemployed foreign nationals seeking benefits. The government is taking steps to strengthen the system by extending the waiting period for migrants to qualify for permanent status in the UK. Notably, individuals residing in the UK unlawfully are not permitted to access UC.
Shadow home secretary Chris Philp expressed concern over the “staggering figures,” citing them as evidence that the Labour government has failed to manage the welfare system effectively. He emphasized the importance of fairness, responsibility, and safeguarding support for those who have contributed to the nation. Critically, the Conservative party has advocated against foreign nationals receiving the personal independence payment (Pip) disability benefit or the health component of UC. Lowe commended the release of the data, stating that those who had persistently called for transparency in this area had achieved a significant victory. describing the high numbers of foreign nationals receiving UC as unsustainable and stressing the financial strain it places on the country
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