UK PM Cameron calls for EU benefits curb

British Prime Minister, David Cameron leaves number 10 Downing street. EPA/FACUNDO ARRIZABALAGA

In a long-awaited speech made on Friday, Cameron said that if he wins the general elections next year, he will propose a bill which will deny EU migrants, of whom Poles are the largest group, a range of welfare benefits during their first four years in the UK.

As John Beauchamp reports, with immigration continuing to swell from the continent, political tempers have flared in recent months, with Cameron also indicating that he is prepared to spearhead Britain’s exit from the EU if European leaders do not accept some of the government’s proposals.

“A reformed EU is in the interests not only of Britain, but of every Member State,” Cameron said.

Cameron also made a nod to contributions made by Poles and Czechs to the Allied victory in World War II.

“We will never forget the Polish and Czech pilots who helped save this country in its hour of need and the Poles who went on to settle here, help build post war Britain and indeed contribute so much to our country today,” he said.