TUC: 'PM attempting to undermine the whole basis of social security'

The Prime Minister is attempting to undermine the whole basis of social security and national insurance by pretending that our welfare state only serves the very few who abuse the system - while instead it provides vital support to millions of families across the country.

To take one proposal, ending housing benefit for all young people would leave no provision for those trying to move to where there are jobs and get settled in a career that will allow them in turn to make a contribution.

This looks like a Government which simply does not understand how precarious life can be for millions who work hard and play fair. The real issue with our welfare state is that it isn't giving most people the real help they need, not that it's too generous.