Shake-up to end benefits poverty trap

KEIR Starmer will today lash out at a "poverty of ambition" as he once again targets the benefit system - while Chancellor Rachel Reeves insists she did not lie about the state of public finances.

- BY DAVE BURKE

The Prime Minister will vow to reform welfare in a major speech in London - saying "any Labour Party worthy of the name" cannot ignore the wasted potential of "trapped" young people.

While the Scotland Act 2016 gives the Scottish Parliament powers over welfare falling within certain categories, the PM is set to back a renewed focus on tackling problems in the UK-wide system.

He is expected to say: "We have to confront the reality our welfare state is trapping people, not just in poverty, but out of work. Young people especially.