Reform UK has unveiled proposals to reserve almost all welfare benefits for British citizens, ending a system that forces taxpayers to fund benefits for foreign nationals.

Under the proposals, foreign nationals would no longer qualify for Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, Pension Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Child Benefit, free childcare or disability benefits.

Sensible exemptions would protect payments such as the War Widows Pension and Armed Forces compensation, safeguarding those who have served Britain and built up a life of contributions through the Armed Forces.

Reform UK Shadow Minister Laura Anne Jones MS said: “British workers should not be forced to bankroll benefits for foreign nationals who have never paid a penny into our system. It is economically reckless, morally indefensible and a complete betrayal of taxpayers.

“Reform will reserve almost all benefits for British citizens, while protecting those who have served our country. If you have worn the uniform, defended Britain and built up a life of contributions, your entitlements will be protected.

“Our welfare state exists to support our own people in genuine need, not to act as a cash machine for the rest of the world. British taxpayers cannot afford to subsidise everyone on the planet while families here struggle to pay their own bills.”

The proposals form part of Reform UK’s commitment to restore fairness, responsibility and public confidence in Britain’s welfare system.