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Universal Credit to Basic Income: A Politically Feasible Transition?

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  • Martin Josh

    (139 East Johnson Street, Madison, WI 53703, USA)

Abstract

Universal Credit, the UK working-age benefit, attempts to address issues of complexity, inflexibility, and work disincentivisation within the benefits system. However, the UK coalition government’s delayed rollout and emphasis on conditionality raise questions over its applicability to twenty-first century labour market problems. Instead, universal basic income tackles similar goals and arguably better addresses labour market changes. But is this transition politically feasible? Through interviews with policy actors from four UK political parties, arguments for and against the likelihood of this transition are presented by utilising theories of welfare state development.

Suggested Citation

  • Martin Josh, 2016. "Universal Credit to Basic Income: A Politically Feasible Transition?," Basic Income Studies, De Gruyter, vol. 11(2), pages 97-131, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:bpj:bistud:v:11:y:2016:i:2:p:97-131:n:2
    DOI: 10.1515/bis-2015-0028
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    References listed on IDEAS

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