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Tougher tests planned for migrant to access benefits

Tougher tests for EU migrants looking to access benefits will be introduced from March 1, Iain Duncan Smith has announced. The Government wants migrants to prove they have earned £150 per week for three months before getting "worker" status.

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IDS: Tougher benefit tests will 'ensure fair system'

Denying "worker" status to EU migrants who fail to prove they have earned £150 per week for at least three months will curb benefits tourism, Iain Duncan Smith has said.

The work and pensions secretary explained:

As part of the Government's long-term economic plan we have taken action to make sure our economy delivers for people who want to work hard, play by the rules and contribute to this country.

These reforms will ensure we have a fair system - one which provides support for genuine workers and jobseekers, but does not allow people to come to our country and take advantage of our benefits system.

The British public are rightly concerned that migrants should contribute to this country, and not be drawn here by the attractiveness of our benefits system.

– Iain Duncan Smith
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Tougher tests planned for migrant to access benefits

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