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Labour in jobseeker benefit threat

UNEMPLOYED people who lack basic english, maths and computing skills will face being stripped of benefits unless they take up training under changes proposed by Labour. Under the plan, all new claimants of Jobseeker's Allowance would have to sit a basic skills test to measure their literacy, numeracy and IT ability within six weeks of signing on.

Those found to need improvement will be put on a programme of training aimed at getting them up to the standard required for steady employment.

Labour estimates around 300,000 people a year will be subject to the conditions of their basic skills policy, which will be set out by Rachel Reeves in her first major speech as shadow work and pensions secretary.

Ms reeves will say: "We all know that basic skills are essential in today's jobs market, but the shocking levels of english and maths among too many jobseekers are holding them back from getting work."