Reform UK Proposes Sweeping Benefit Cuts and Brexit Deal Renegotiation

Reform UK has unveiled a radical new policy platform. The party, led by Nigel Farage, aims to strip EU citizens of benefit rights. This proposal would require a major renegotiation of the UK’s post-Brexit deal with the European Union.

The announcement intensifies the political battle over immigration and public spending. It comes as the government prepares a new budget amid ongoing economic pressures.

Details of the Proposed Overhaul

Reform UK’s plan targets foreign nationals and the benefits system. The party wants to restrict universal credit to British citizens only. According to BBC reports, this could save an estimated £6.4bn this year.

Policy chief Zia Yusuf stated foreign nationals should “bear the brunt” of austerity. The party also plans to triple the NHS surcharge for visa applicants. Another proposal would remove disability benefits from people with “non-serious anxiety issues.”

Broader Economic and Political Impact

The party’s wider agenda includes deep cuts to foreign aid. It proposes reducing the annual budget to just £1bn. This is a significant drop from the £14bn spent last year, according to Bloomberg.

These moves are framed as necessary to prevent broad tax hikes. The proposals have sparked a fierce reaction from other political leaders. Both Conservative and Labour figures have warned that reopening the Brexit deal is dangerous.

Warnings of a Potential Trade War

Renegotiating the Brexit withdrawal agreement is a central but controversial goal. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called the idea “completely ridiculous.” She emphasized the fragility of the current agreements protecting citizens’ rights.

Labour’s Anna Turley issued a stark warning. She said such a move could trigger a “trade war with Europe.” This would undermine recent efforts to smooth post-Brexit trade friction.

Farage has acknowledged the risk of EU retaliation, including tariffs. However, he argues the UK’s status as a key market for Europe provides strong negotiating leverage. He insists the policy is fundamentally about “fairness” for British taxpayers.

The party’s platform signals a hard shift on immigration and economic policy. Its call to renegotiate the Brexit deal places it at the center of a contentious national debate.

Thought you’d like to know

What specific benefits would EU citizens lose under Reform UK’s plan?

Reform UK proposes stripping EU nationals of the right to claim universal credit. The plan would also significantly increase the NHS surcharge they must pay to access healthcare services.

How much money does Reform UK claim these changes would save?

The party estimates saving £6.4bn this year by restricting universal credit. It projects annual savings could rise to £10bn by the end of the decade through these and other benefit reforms.

Why are other parties opposed to renegotiating the Brexit deal?

Opponents argue it would violate an international treaty and damage the UK’s credibility. They also fear it would lead to retaliatory tariffs from the EU, harming British businesses and exports.

What is the proposed new budget for foreign aid?

Reform UK plans to slash the foreign aid budget to £1bn per year. This is a dramatic reduction designed to redirect funds to domestic priorities.

Has Nigel Farage ruled out future tax cuts?

Farage has admitted that “substantial tax cuts” are not currently realistic. This marks a shift from the party’s previous election pledge for £90bn in tax reductions.