Welfare Reform Bill

The position of all existing claimants will be protected in cash terms. They cannot and will not be worse off. Under the new system I have outlined which premiums will operate under those arrangements and how they will do so. The disability premium will not be available because of the new structure of the benefit. We also need to bear in mind, when making these comparisons, that the ESA brings with it not only the cash benefits but also the support that is vital for getting people back into employment and helping them improve their lives.