Legislation introducing an "investment approach'' to welfare has been signed off by the Cabinet and will go before a select committee after its first reading in Parliament.

The Finance Minister denies the Government will use a $78 billion valuation of the lifelong cost of benefits as an excuse to get the public to buy into a harder line on welfare.

Dr Andrew Cardow says Paula Bennett appears to be working under the belief that beneficiaries do not have the wherewithal to decide what is best for their children.

Editorial: Early education has not been a priority for this Government. But having made it compulsory for beneficiaries National will find it hard to argue against wider compulsion.

Early childhood experts are in shock after a government decision to make education compulsory from the age of 3 for children of welfare beneficiaries.

Editorial: A simple breakfast is not much to ask and should be provided for all children who need it. But if it is to be public funded, the food should be distributed by agencies that know a community.

Drug testing of beneficiaries comes in next year, with penalties for those who fail. What's your view on the government's policy?

Drug testing of beneficiaries will come into force next year, with penalties for those who fail tests.

What part do facts play in the welfare debate, and how much is "truthiness" getting in the way?

The Government's flagship welfare policy for Maori, Whanau Ora - worth $40 million this year - is designed to lift families out of