Proposals like these would normally have to go before the Social Security Advisory Committee for consultation before becoming law. But the government can, and in relation to ESA, already has, declined to accept the reccomendations of the committee.
It is likely that the DWP would want to see these changesbrought in before the migration of current ESA claimants. So certainly within the year.
Steve
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
