Rachel Reeves will emphasize the importance of «hard work matched by fair reward» as she introduces plans for a «youth guarantee» to combat unemployment. The chancellor will advocate for a society grounded in «contribution» in her address at Labour’s annual conference in Liverpool today.
She is set to confirm initiatives for every young individual who has been on universal credit (UC) for 18 months without «earning or learning» to be assured an offer of paid employment. Those who decline job offers without a valid reason will potentially lose their benefits.
The guarantee, overseen by Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden, is part of a commitment to eradicate long-term youth unemployment. Ms. Reeves will state, «I believe in a Britain built on contribution – where we fulfill our obligations to one another, and where hard work is rewarded fairly. I believe in a Britain that provides opportunities for all, regardless of their background. And I believe that Britain’s true wealth lies not only in the success of a privileged few, but in the abilities of all our people, in every corner of our wonderful country.»
Concerns have been raised among some Labour members about the government’s need to offer a clearer vision of its agenda. Sir Keir Starmer has previously steered clear of using buzzwords to define his politics, but a paper by thinktank Labour Together last week argued that the concept of contribution should be central to policymaking.
Ms. Reeves is expected to affirm, «We will not leave a generation of young people to languish without prospects – deprived of the dignity, security, and opportunities that good work provides. Just as the previous Labour government, with its new deal for young people, eradicated long-term youth unemployment, I pledge this government to nothing less than the abolition of long-term youth unemployment. We have achieved it before, and we will do it again.»
Sir Mel Stride, the shadow chancellor, criticized Labour for contradictions in their policies. He pointed out that while Rachel Reeves aims to eliminate youth unemployment, her initial budget introduced a £25 billion jobs tax that made it costlier for businesses to hire, particularly young individuals. He highlighted the inconsistency in Labour’s plan, where they speak of opportunity but their policies hinder job creation. Since Labour took office, unemployment has risen, business confidence has decreased, and now Reeves is attempting to rectify a problem she contributed to, while often shifting blame onto others.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves will speak to Sky News at 7.15am this morning before her speech at the conference at midday.
SOURCE