Labour ministry taking steps to better target state support

The Ministry of Labour has announced plans to introduce a single application form for four social benefits in order to simplify and better target state support. The merger would combine housing allowance with housing supplement, subsistence allowance and child benefits. This would enable the authorities to have stricter control over the claimant's income, their assets, what support they are already receiving and whether or not they are employed. Work or seeking employment would be a condition for receiving support. The changes should come into force next year.