A STUDY which said the benefits system is unlikely to survive the coronavirus crisis has won the backing of an Oxford MP.

The Institute of Economic Affairs has published a study which that the welfare system is “very unlikely” to survive the coronavirus crisis in its present form, and that the furlough scheme has strengthened the case for a Universal Basic Income.

A UBI would see everyone in the country handed the same, small amount of money each month to help with living costs.

It has been championed by left wing politicians and campaigners in recent years following the 2008 financial crash.

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Throughout the coronavirus crisis, Layla Moran, Lib Dem MP for Oxford West and Abingdon, has also been pushing for UBI.

Ms Moran said: "The current furlough scheme has undoubtedly helped millions. But, hundreds of thousands more have fallen through the cracks of Government measures, including the self-employed, and those in the gig-economy. Universal Credit has been completely overwhelmed by demand.

"As we recover, we cannot leave anyone in society behind. We need a fairer economy that puts people and their wellbeing at the heart."

A survey by Oxford University professor Timothy Garton-Ash found that 71 per cent of Europeans supported the idea of bringing in a UBI after the pandemic.