There should be a thorough survey of the public into major welfare reform, according to the Celtic League.

The League's director of information, Bernard Moffatt has written to Chief Minister Allan Bell, urging him to carry out an island-wide survey of reforms that include raising the state pension age and putting a cap on benefits.

The first public meeting held last night attracted an audience of just 40 people.

Mr Moffatt said: 'I would respectfully suggest that if such change is both necessary and radical then a wider consultation than several public meetings should be considered.

'An island-wide survey of social security and welfare reform could be much more focused in its agenda and therefore be much less expensive. Specific scenarios could be posed and, most importantly, if informed by cogent facts, some indication could be obtained from the public as to how much they are prepared to contribute in the future to maintain good welfare provision.'

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