Social Development Minister Carmel Sepuloni told Q+A tonight the Government has ruled out raising core benefits before the next election.

She says an increase may be considered in phase two of the Government’s welfare reform but it will take three to five years to roll out the plan.

“We are committed to an overhaul but we won’t be raising benefits at this election.”

The Welfare Advisory Group recommended raising core benefits from 12 to 47 per cent.

“I would hope that New Zealanders out there, particularly those that rely on support from MSD will have faith and confidence that this government will do something to make their lives better.

Please find the full interview here.

Q+A, 9:30pm Mondays on TVNZ 1 and one hour later on TVNZ 1 + 1.
Streamed live at www.tvnz.co.nz
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