Burnham says he wants to cut welfare bill 'as soon as we possibly can'

Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, reiterated the government's goal to reduce the welfare bill quickly, emphasizing support for people to move into sustainable employment rather than crude cuts. He avoided setting a specific timeline, stating the plan depends on upcoming reports by Sir Stephen Timms and Alan Milburn on disability benefits and young people not in education, employment or training. Former Bank of England chief economist Andy Haldane noted that a plan showing 'greater restraint' on benefits would be welcomed by financial markets.