Cridland: Business must not be burdened

John Cridland, deputy director general of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) comments on the government's proposed welfare reforms:

"Businesses are keen to explore the new recruitment pool and for benefit expenditure to fall, but they must not be burdened – much will depend on government.

"Taking on staff with limited recent work experience and often complex personal problems is not straightforward, and support is needed both for employer and applicant. The scheme must deliver candidates who are ready for sustainable employment.

"Specialist welfare to work providers in the private and voluntary sectors have already proved their worth, and further investment in this approach now could result in significant savings in the future. But the UK needs this success to be seen on a much larger scale if the massive burden of welfare dependency is to be reduced."