Attacks on Social Welfare

Last week it was announced that social security benefits are next for the chop. The unemployment benefit may be taxed, with the inevitable reduction in its value. The DPB, sickness and invalid benefits may be linked to wage movements.

Currently most benefits are tied to the price index. Thus, with the removal of price controls and the relatively slow movement in wages, these benefits will also get smaller. The Government's explanation to the people at the very bottom of the income scale is that they are "on the periphery" and the subject of measures taken "in a practical and tidy way". Some consolation. For students, these moves could well presage the taxing of the bursary.

To his critics, who argue that in spite of and often because of the Government's tactics in facing up to the crisis, things are going to get worse, Muldoon says: "statements along these lines are made without knowledge of steps the Government may take". May take. It's a convenient way of opting out, but given the continuing attacks on our living standards, it's not hard to guess what sort of suprises he has in mind.

Simon Wilson