On Friday 23 September, the recently appointed Chancellor - Kwasi Kwarteng - gave a statement to the House of Commons on the Government's plans for growth. During the statement, Stephen asked if he will raise benefits in line with next month's inflation rate.
Inflation is around 10%. However, social security benefits were only uprated by 3% in April. The previous Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, had made assurances that there would be a catch-up increase next April.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Stephen asked “will the Chancellor give the important assurance that his predecessor gave, that social security benefits will be fully uprated in the usual way, in line with this month’s inflation figure?” Kwasi Kwarteng refused to repeat that assurance.
You can watch Stephen’s question, and the Chancellor’s response, below.