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The Social Security (Up-rating) Bill - New Clause 2
20 September 2021
Lead MP
Eleanor Laing
Debate Type
Bill Debate
Tags
Northern IrelandBenefits & Welfare
Other Contributors: 7
At a Glance
Eleanor Laing raised concerns about the social security (up-rating) bill - new clause 2 in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
This new clause would require the Secretary of State to lay before Parliament an assessment of the impact of the uprating next year by price inflation instead of earnings growth on levels of pensioner poverty in Scotland, Wales and England. The Bill does not extend to Northern Ireland.
Guy Opperman
Con
Hexham
This is a short, two-clause Bill that sets out the way in which we will go from a triple lock to a double lock. The Government have not offered reassurance on their commitment to the triple lock in the long term.
Matt Rodda
Lab
Reading Central
The Government's approach could have a damaging effect on millions of pensioners and indeed on the public as a whole. The Government have still not offered any reassurance on their commitment to the triple lock in the long term.
Debbie Abrahams
Lab
Oldham East and Saddleworth
New clause 1 compels the Secretary of State to assess the impact of the Bill on poverty, inequality and health. It requests a report be laid before the House within six months of the passing of the Act.
David Linden
SNP
Glasgow East
I support both new clause 1 and 2. These clauses aim to ensure the Government does not ignore its manifesto pledges regarding pensioner poverty, requiring transparency in impact assessments and holding them accountable for breaking promises.
Patricia Gibson
SNP
North Ayrshire and Arran
Intervened to express disappointment with the Minister's lack of understanding regarding section 28 of the Scotland Act, arguing that rather than expecting Scottish authorities to compensate for Westminster’s injustices, power should be given to prevent such issues from occurring.
Guy Opperman
Con
Hexham
Opposed new clauses, stating the Bill is a one-year measure only and arguing that the Department already publishes comprehensive data on poverty and public health in annual reports. He also disagreed with the SNP's interpretation of Scottish Government powers under section 28 of the Scotland Act.
Matt Rodda
Lab
Reading Central
Called for the Government to address manifesto pledges and trust issues, proposing measures like reporting on pensioners’ income impact while maintaining the earnings link. He urged clarity from the government regarding the issue.
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Assessment & feedback
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