Data detailing the immigration status of Universal Credit (UC) recipients has been released for the first time. UC is a benefit intended to support both employed and unemployed individuals with their living expenses.
As of June, nearly eight million individuals were receiving Universal Credit, with British and Irish nationals comprising 83.6% of the claimant base.
The data reveals over one million claimants were born outside the UK, including approximately 700,000 EU citizens who entered the UK prior to Brexit and possess the right to reside and work in the country.
Refugees account for approximately 1.5% of claimants, while 0.7% arrived in the UK through designated safe routes, such as those established for Ukrainian and Afghan nationals.
Notably, over 75,000 claimants who are temporarily in the UK, and typically ineligible for benefits, are also receiving UC. The BBC has requested further clarification from the Department for Work and Pensions regarding this figure.
Government statistics dating back to April 2022 indicate that the proportion of claimants born overseas has remained relatively stable, fluctuating between 15% and 17%.
Concurrently, the total number of UC recipients has increased from 5.5 million to 7.9 million during the same period.
The data was released following calls from certain Conservative figures and independent MP Rupert Lowe.
A Downing Street representative stated that the Prime Minister aims to reduce the number of unemployed foreign nationals claiming benefits, emphasizing the government’s commitment to “toughening up the system” by extending the waiting period for migrants to qualify for permanent residency in the UK.
The spokesperson further clarified that individuals residing illegally in the UK are not permitted to access UC.
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp described the figures as “staggering” and asserted they provide “clear proof that the Labour government has lost control of our welfare system.”
“Under Kemi Badenoch, we’ve set out a clear, common-sense position. This is about fairness, responsibility and protecting support for those who’ve contributed to this country,” he stated.
The Conservatives have previously indicated that foreign nationals should not be eligible for the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) disability benefit or the health component of UC.
Lowe characterized the data’s publication as a “huge win” for those who have “relentlessly pushed for this.”
He described the number of foreign nationals claiming UC as “absolute insanity,” adding, “We cannot afford it. The country is BROKE.”