Funding the Future Why do we still have poverty in UK?
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Nov 30, 2025 Why does poverty persist in a wealthy nation like the UK? The discussion critiques the notion that benefits spending alone can eradicate poverty. Antisocial neoliberal policies, low wages, and high rents are identified as key factors sustaining economic disparity. Instead of aiding the poor, benefits often serve to protect existing wealth. Proposals for higher wages and better public services are highlighted as essential for change, emphasizing that only through taxation and redistribution can true poverty reduction be achieved.
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On-Air Challenge About Poverty
- Murphy recounts Mark Littlewood asking why poverty exists despite a £300bn benefits bill during a radio debate.
- He interprets the question as blaming benefit recipients rather than examining the economic system.
Poverty As A Policy Tool
- Richard Murphy argues 45 years of neoliberal policy concentrated wealth at the top and deliberately creates insecurity for workers.
- He says poverty functions as a policy tool to discipline labour and keep wages low.
Where The Benefit Bill Goes
- Murphy breaks down the £300bn benefits bill showing most subsidises pensions, disability support, housing and low wages.
- He argues those payments often protect landlords and corporations, not only the poorest people.