It was the outpacing rate ie rising dramatically faster. It is not a case of hard work not being rewarded - what planet are you on if you think that doesn’t exist in the UK? I sympathise a little on public sector bloat but most of them won’t be earning great salaries. I really think you have a defeatist attitude - times are hard for many no doubt and when people tighten their belts clearly some businesses will be adversely impacted as disposable income shrinks.
Politics of envy? I’ve been on higher tax rate pretty much all of my career. Not one of my family has claimed one penny in benefits. Only ever had child benefit that ceased as soon as means tested - so would very much say I was a net contributor. However I don’t see everyone on benefits as scroungers, although of course some are. Most people aspire to earn more and very few sit back and think they will have a life of Riley on benefits, they just hope for opportunities. As often said so many adverse factors affecting society, many outside of any political control. You seem not to be able to grasp that. Those with assets are benefiting far more than those without, year on year, but you seem to the think it is moving towards an equilibrium as the poor are taking your money.