The Labour leadership front-runners have been booed and jeered by union activists as they refused to condemn Tory plans for a £23,000 benefits cap. Shadow health secretary Andy Burnham, shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper and shadow health minister Liz Kendall all said they did not oppose planned cuts on principal. According to recent figures released by the Office of National Statistics, average weekly earnings are currently £489 a week, working out at £25,428 per year. The Government plans to cap welfare payments so somebody can not be better off claiming benefits than someone in full-time employment. The Labour politicians were questioned by members of the GMB union, which is holding its annual conference in Dublin this week.Labour leadership hopefuls were questioned by union delegates in DublinAndy Burnham said he thought a litre of petrol cost £1.60 when it is £1.16Burnham then praised outgoing Labour leader Ed Miliband for his abilityYvette Cooper claimed the Labour Party had too narrow a focus to winLiz Kendall warned the party was under 'mortal threat' following its defeat
'_ needs a fighter - and I am a fighter,' she said. He repeated that he had decided not to accept any donations from unions for his campaign because he believed it would put him in a stronger position to defend the _/union link.