On Monday 6 February, MPs debated 'social security and pensions.' Stephen spoke on the recent inquiry by the Select Committee for Work and Pensions, which he chairs, and urged the Government to strength the social security safety net, particularly through increasing Local Housing Allowance (LHA).
In November 2022, benefits were uprated in line with inflation, but LHA remained frozen at rates set before the pandemic. Stephen argued that the Government should take another look at LHA levels to prevent a further surge in the number of rough sleepers.
Speaking in the chamber, Stephen said: “Ministers say they are committed to ending rough sleeping, but this policy is driving an increase in rough sleeping…we are a very, very long way from providing an adequate social security safety net.”
You can watch Stephen’s full speech below.