Tory Welfare Crackdown Conservatives Push to Ban Foreigners from Sickness Benefits

The Conservatives are demanding a Tory welfare crackdown to block foreign nationals from claiming disability and sickness benefits. Party leader Kemi Badenoch will warn that Britain’s soaring welfare bill risks collapsing the economy.

In a speech today, Badenoch will describe the welfare system as unsustainable. She will accuse Labour of ignoring rising costs while bowing to left-wing MPs. The Tory welfare crackdown aims to tighten eligibility for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Universal Credit health top-ups.

Recent government plans to curb benefits faced fierce opposition, forcing ministers to scale back reforms. Now, the Tories want stricter rules, including face-to-face assessments and restrictions for those with “less severe” mental health conditions.

Under the proposals, only British citizens would qualify for PIP and Universal Credit health payments. Exceptions would apply for those covered by international agreements, such as EU nationals with settled status. Currently, foreign residents gain access after securing indefinite leave or refugee status.

Shadow minister Neil O’Brien claims foreign nationals received £941 million in Universal Credit last March. However, exact figures remain unclear since the DWP doesn’t track claimants by nationality. New data expected next week may fuel the debate.

Labour dismissed the Tory welfare crackdown, arguing the Conservatives had 14 years to fix the system. A spokesperson said the plans could backfire, harming disabled Britons abroad if other nations retaliate.

Meanwhile, Reform UK opposes the two-child benefit cap, with Nigel Farage branding it unfair. Badenoch hit back, comparing Farage to “Jeremy Corbyn with a pint and a cigarette” and accusing him of pushing unaffordable policies.

As the welfare debate intensifies, the Tories hope their tough stance will resonate with voters. Yet critics warn that squeezing support risks leaving vulnerable groups without a safety net.

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