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Finland to consider introducing universal basic income in 2017
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/wo...-a6963321.htmlAround 10,000 people in Finland could soon be receiving €550 each month if the government decides to implement a universal basic income pilot project.
A working group has advised the government to launch the tax-free wage, equivalent to unemployment and welfare benefits that cover food, personal hygiene and clothing, in 2017 for two years.
The income would be unconditional and would not involve being means-tested for benefits. It would replace part of Finland’s social security net.
The government will decide in May whether to go ahead with the scheme, as part of a wider effort to reduce national spending.
Hanna Mantyla, the minister of social affairs and health, said the project was needed because the Finnish social security system faced “big challenges in the future” if it was not simplified.
Professor Olli Kangas, the leader of the working group, said: “It would be secure income… It would encourage people who are afraid of losing their unemployment or other benefits [though working part-time] to take short-term jobs.”
The wage, according to Reuters, would be supplemented with earnings-related benefits when necessary. But those in the project who do earn a wage would pay the money back through increased income tax.
Universal basic income is also being considered in Switzerland, the Netherlands and France.
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