One of the biggest complaints I get on the doorstep is about EU migrants coming here to access our benefits system. So I am delighted that from today, EU migrants claiming benefits will face the first ‘genuine prospect of work’ interviews. If they don’t pass this test they cannot continue claiming benefits, will lose their right to reside here as a resident and will be added to the Home Office watch list. We have already given councils power over the residency rules, in Portsmouth you have to live in the city for 2 years if you want council accommodation although the minority Conservative administration are looking to increase this to 5 years. This means more local houses for local people.
People in Portsmouth have sent a clear message that they are concerned that migrants should contribute to this country, and not be drawn here by the attractiveness of our benefit and housing system.
As part of the Government’s long-term economic plan we have taken action and put in place new rules to ensure we have a fair system that provides support for genuine workers and jobseekers, but does not allow people to stay and take advantage.