Date: Wednesday 20th February 2008, 12.30pm
Location: 10 Greycoat Place, London, SW1P 1SB
Speakers: Rt. Hon James Purnell MP, Secretarty of State for Work and Pensions
Chair: Ann Rossiter, SMF Director
The text for this speech is now online.
The Government has ambitious goals for tackling economic inactivity including an aim to move 1 million people off Incapacity Benefit and into work. To this end it has been announced that Incapacity Benefit will be replaced by the Employment and Support Allowance. Discussion continues as to how best to enable people with physical or mental conditions to find suitable work. But fears have been expressed in some quarters that those who can’t work may end up being financially penalised. The Government argues its intention is to find work for those who can and support those who can't – the new Work and Pensions Secretary James Purnell has already said “the welfare state was conceived as a way to support human flourishing. To foster independence, to give people the support they need, not so that they became dependent but precisely so that they would not.”
As a contribution to this debate the SMF is holding an event at which James Purnell will address these crucial issues. This prestigious keynote speech is a must for those working in this field.
Places are limited so reply early to secure your place.
To help us to ensure that all those attending the event are able to participate fully please let us know about any requirements you have.
Please reply to Events@smf.co.uk to reserve a place or call Will on 020 7227 4412 or Sally on 020 7227 4401