Lord Rose calls for government reform of the benefits system amidst increasing worklessness in the UK.
- The number of individuals unable to work due to long-term sickness has risen significantly.
- Rose emphasises the need to boost productivity and review the benefits system.
- He argues against reliance on benefits, highlighting personal experience and work ethic.
- Education and skill development are critical for future workforce sustainability, according to Rose.
The UK’s worklessness issue has prompted Lord Rose, chair of Asda, to call for reform in the benefits system, citing a marked increase in individuals unable to work due to long-term sickness. The latest data from the Office for National Statistics indicates that 2.8 million people of working age are economically inactive due to long-term health issues, an increase from 2.2 million before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lord Rose, in his communication with The Telegraph, stressed the importance of enhancing productivity and recalibrating the benefits system to balance supporting those in need with encouraging contributions from those capable of working. He stated, “We must increase productivity. We must tackle these 2.8 million people who are economically inactive. We must make sure that we’ve got the benefit system in balance.”
Rose highlighted the necessity of cultivating a societal mindset that values work, using his background to underscore this belief. He recounted his upbringing in a caravan and his ongoing work at 75 to argue against a culture of dependency on welfare. “We can’t just become a state now where people just live on handouts,” he explained, arguing against what he perceives as a lenient attitude towards work absence.
The sentiment was echoed by business secretary Jonathan Reynolds, who also shared his concerns about the labour market, particularly with the rising number of non-working individuals post-pandemic. Reynolds remarked on the significant labour market challenges, aligning with Lord Rose’s outlook.
In addressing the long-term resolution of worklessness, Rose advocated for a generational shift in education and skill acquisition, suggesting that meaningful change could take several decades. He urged a focus on educating individuals with practical skills that align with future work demands, fostering environments where the workplace is perceived as a space for learning and self-esteem development.
The call for benefits system reform highlights the need for enhanced productivity and a cultural shift towards valuing work.
