UK public supports increased disability benefit spending

A new British Social Attitudes (BSA) survey suggests that proposals to cut disability benefits may be 'politically risky' for major political parties. According to findings by the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen), 49 per cent of respondents believe the government should increase spending on disability benefits, even if it necessitates higher taxes. In contrast, only 7 per cent believe spending in this area should be reduced.

Support for disability benefits remains high across the political spectrum, with 40 per cent of right-leaning voters backing increased spending, compared to 10 per cent who support less.

The survey also examined public sentiment regarding the National Health Service (NHS). The analysis indicates that the current Labour government faces a greater scale of challenge regarding the NHS than the New Labour government did in 1997. While dissatisfaction in 1996 was primarily focused on waiting times and hospital services, current dissatisfaction is more widespread, including poorer ratings for GP services, A&E, and hospitals.