The issue with benefits and immigrant receiving funds is one that isn't recent or new. Benefits started a long time ago, and is so far ingrained in society that we are stuck with it.
If benefits were axed for child support (for the Daily Mail mothers), there'd be outrage and probably conflict of some sort.
If benefits were axed for people 'faking disability' or the 'job seekers' then we'd once again have outrage and conflict.
The big problem that I believe most people see in the benefit culture is that it is being abused - money isn't being spent for essentials, instead it goes on other things such as Sky TV, alcohol, drugs, latest fashion etc. Add to that the seeming fact that many of the persons claiming benefits cause trouble and issues for those citizens who do contribute to the country and pay tax etc.
If benefits were given as vouchers or special credit for specific uses, with the option for change through a merit/appeal process, then we'd see greater harmony with those funding benefits, those who *need* benefits, and those who are being Daily-Mail-stereotypically-lazy (forced to then work).