By Islam El-Sakka
Chancellor John Healey has pledged a reduction in the welfare bill before the next general election, stating the government has a "moral duty" to help young people out of work.
Welfare spending forecasts
Government spending watchdog the Office for Budget Responsibility forecasts welfare spending will rise to £353 billion this year and reach £431 billion in 2031/32.
Political reactions
The Conservatives accused Labour of being "addicted to welfare," while Reform UK said the Budget failed to address the "ballooning" benefits bill.
