Stephen spoke in Monday’s debate in Parliament on the draft Social Security Benefits Up-rating Order 2020. This order marks the first time in years benefits are being uprated in line with inflation. Stephen welcomed this increase, but raised concerns about the impact of the benefits freeze.
Stephen highlighted recent research from Citizens Advice on the number of people they help with no money left at the end of the month once they have covered living costs.
He commended the proposal made by the Work and Pensions Select Committee last July for benefits to be uprated at CPI plus 2%.
Stephen said: ‘The freeze has made life very difficult indeed for those who depend on benefits. We are seeing enormous numbers resorting to foodbanks, people sleeping rough in Westminster tube station; and child poverty going through the roof. I would ask the Government to look again at the Select Committee’s recommendations.’