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The new Work and Pensions Secretary has refused to rule out tightening eligibility for universal credit, saying welfare reform “is happening all the time”. Speaking to the BBC, Pat McFadden also did not rule out ending health-related Universal Credit payments for claimants under the age of 22. ‌

He said: “Look, I’m not ruling anything out. Welfare reform is really important. At the moment, this system is unhealthy for people and in the long run is pushing up the benefits bill because we’re not getting the help to people who could work.” ‌

His comments come after the UK Government’s decision to delay proposed changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Universal Credit’s health-related benefits. ‌

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