BBC's Nick Robinson scolded by shadow minister over benefits claimants' spending - 'It's TAXPAYER cash!'

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The BBC's Nick Robinson was scolded by the Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary this afternoon over criticism of a fresh Conservative pledge to restrict benefits claimants from splurging on alcohol, cigarettes and gambling.

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Kemi Badenoch earlier unveiled plans to cut payments to long-term unemployed people by around a third, with cash payments replaced by prepaid "back-to-work cards" blocked from spending on illicit items.The Tory leader said the welfare system should act as a safety net rather than become a long-term alternative to employment, and argued that people who are able to work should be encouraged into jobs through "tough love", particularly young people.In an interview with Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Helen Whately, Mr Robinson asked: "Isn't it patronising?

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To tell people how to spend their own money?" TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say In response, Ms Whately rebutted by arguing the money claimants have access to is in fact not their money, and said: "This is...

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