The UK government has announced that in order to "ensure the fairness of the welfare system," immigrants to the UK must first undergo an English language proficiency test before they can apply for income-related welfare benefits. In addition, immigrants must also answer questions regarding what steps they took to find employment before arriving in the UK.
UK Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Iain Duncan Smith stated that the UK welfare system cannot be "taken advantage of" by others. The Department for Work and Pensions stated that Jobcentre Plus offices across England, Scotland, and Wales will adopt stricter verification measures. These stricter measures will ensure that "only those with a legal right to reside in the UK and who plan to contribute to the UK can apply for welfare benefits." The Department for Work and Pensions issued a statement saying, "This is the first time that immigrants coming to the UK have been asked about the efforts they made to find work before arriving, and whether their English language proficiency is an advantage or a disadvantage in their job search."
It is reported that income-related welfare benefits include council tax support, housing benefit, jobseeker's allowance, and pension credit.