Voluntary Government?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-22327335

Iain Duncan Smith continues to illustrate how out of touch he is with the people that his policies affect. As it it wasn't enough to make rash claims about how easily he could adapt to life on the poverty line (sign the petition at https://www.change.org/en-GB if you disagree!) he has now claimed that rich pensioners should voluntarily surrender benefits they don't need without any intervention from the government.

You can see why the Works and Pensions Secretary would want to avoid annoying the growing numbers of pensioners in this country. They tend to have long memories and, unlike other potential interest groups, actually turn up at the voting booths. However, somebody should probably point out to him that this is the sort of rhetoric that only flourishes in fantasy land and tends to spontaneously combust in the real world.

When it comes to money we can't rely on the better natures of the rich. Just look at how many rich individuals and businesses have refrained from dodging taxes because it could be seen as ungrateful and unethical to do so. Alternatively consider the lack of restraint that banks showed as they cooked their own books and sold ever more risky financial products for a quick profit. Smith's decision not to take action is especially two-faced at a time when the disabled are being stripped of benefits and council house residents are being penalised for a few underused rooms.

It is up to the government to ensure that those who need support can get it and that those who may be able to abuse the system do not selfishly do so. If he disagrees then what will he suggest next? Scrap the international aid budget and rely on private philanthropy? Or maybe get rid of the armed forces and trust conscientious citizens to spend their savings on assault rifles and battleships?

Perhaps the eminent Secretary should just stop prevaricating and take some responsibility for his actions.