Cutting tax credits is the wrong way to reform the benefits system, argues Doug Bamford. Earnings subsidies will reduce the incentive to work in the shadow economy, he explains. Recent government plans to reduce tax credits have generated a lot of interest and controversy. I propose a further reason to think that the proposals are […]
Where’s the evidence for IDS’s new ‘smartcard’ scheme for poor?
Iain Duncan Smith has announced the launch of pre-paid cards, loaded with benefit payments to ensure that money will go to feed families and not “self-destructive habits”. It was an initiative that attracted applause from his Conservative party colleagues. But, asks Professor David Hulme, is it really necessary? Hear Prof David Hulme speak at a […]