With the general complexity of welfare systems, there are occasional requests for simplification of welfare systems.
The general aim is to head towards a simple system of benefits. This may also include a simplified system based on the individual rather than on identifiable groups reflecting the reasons for welfare assistance (e.g., unemployed, incapacity).
![]() | This section needs expansion. You can help by
adding to it. (June 2007) |
The British House of Commons Work and Pensions Committee has announced an inquiry to "examine the feasibility of simplifying the UK benefit system". [1]
Particular areas of interest are likely to include:
Also known as Working New Zealand
In the late 1980s Minister of Social Welfare Dr Michael Cullen announced the then Labour Government’s intention to move to a universal benefit. The Labour government subsequently lost the next election and the policy was dropped by the incoming National government.
In 2001 the Labour-led government began its overhaul of social welfare with Pathways to Opportunity. Its aims were to:
On 26 October 2006 the Labour-led government announced a number of changes to the welfare system. [2] The changes include continuing to align rules and criteria of different benefits.