He claimed some advisers had a “100% hit rate” on benefits applications and could even secure Personal Independence Payments (PIP) for those who might not appear eligible. Anderson accused Citizens Advice of continuing similar practices.

The MP, now Reform UK’s welfare spokesman, outlined his party’s plans to tighten the welfare system, proposing more face-to-face assessments, regular reassessments, and measures to prevent system exploitation.

His party claims current practices leave many young people “tossed onto a scrap heap for the rest of their lives.” Anderson also defended Reform UK against criticism from Conservative peer Lord Heseltine, who compared the party to historical far-right movements. Anderson called Heseltine’s comments “deeply unpleasant” and said the peer “just needs to shut up and go away.” The Labour Party and Liberal Democrats have dismissed Reform UK’s proposals.

Labour highlighted that Anderson had previously supported Tory cuts to PIP assessments, while the Liberal Democrats questioned the party’s competence in managing public finances.