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Financial and Social Emergency Support Package
25 March 2020
Lead MP
Jeremy Corbyn
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
EmploymentBenefits & Welfare
Other Contributors: 53
At a Glance
Jeremy Corbyn raised concerns about financial and social emergency support package in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
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
The debate is held amid a crisis unlike any other in our lifetimes due to the coronavirus outbreak, which will have a lasting impact on the economy and society. The immediate task of the Opposition is to help arrest the spread of the virus while supporting public health efforts and being constructively critical where necessary to ensure an improved official response. Clear communication from the Government is vital for everyone's safety. However, underfunded public services, insecure work, and a threadbare social security system are exposed as vulnerabilities in our economy and society.
Catherine West
Lab
Hornsey and Friern Barnet
Welcomes the announcement of a national initiative to coordinate volunteer efforts but highlights the need for clear guidance on when, where, and how volunteers should assist. Emphasises the importance of co-ordination and responsibility among those volunteering.
Jeremy Corbyn
Ind
Islington North
Reiterates the importance of responsible volunteer initiatives and acknowledges essential public services providers such as NHS staff, social care workers, and others on the frontline. Mentions that volunteers are well-organised and protective.
Rupa Huq
Lab
Ealing Central and Acton
Agrees with Jeremy Corbyn's approach and highlights the need for a collective response to the crisis, suggesting policies such as nationalising railways, providing economic stimulus, and free broadband may not seem outlandish given the current context.
Jeremy Corbyn
Ind
Islington North
Reiterates that many of these proposed measures are already being implemented due to the crisis, acknowledging that public service deficiencies exposed during election campaigns have led to this necessity.
Gareth Thomas
Lab Co-op
Harrow West
Highlights a specific issue regarding care home staff shortages and calls for quicker action from the Home Office to address sponsorship requirements for overseas qualified staff.
Jeremy Corbyn
Ind
Islington North
Corbyn emphasised the need to support key workers and essential services during the coronavirus crisis. He criticised the Home Office for delaying highly skilled people from contributing, praised civil servants and other essential staff like teachers and delivery workers, and highlighted the importance of recognising and valuing jobs often dismissed as low-skilled. Corbyn also stressed the urgent need for personal protective equipment (PPE) for NHS staff and social care workers, advocating for full testing and financial security for these groups. He called for an income protection scheme for self-employed and insecure workers equivalent to that provided for employees.
Jones questioned whether the Government should sanction employers who force their employees to work in non-essential industries, suggesting fines as a possible measure. He highlighted cases where employees were threatened with no pay if they did not attend work despite being told it was non-essential.
Tan Dhesi
Lab
Slough
Dhesi agreed that mixed messages and lack of support from the Government have put construction workers in an unenviable position, forcing them to continue working on public transport without any other income source. He called for clear guidance and financial assistance for self-employed or insecurely employed construction workers.
Stephens questioned the responsibility of Government contractors in ensuring at-risk employees are not compelled to attend work, highlighting examples like Atos and Adecco. He suggested that such practices are disgraceful and should be intervened by the Government.
Jeremy Corbyn
Ind
Islington North
Mr. Corbyn highlights that statutory sick pay is unlivable, as even disabled people on employment support allowance struggle to survive on £73 a week and carers only receive £66 a week. He demands protection for private renters from evictions and control over rent increases post-crisis.
Brighton, Kemptown
Mr. Russell-Moyle raises concerns about potential rent hikes and mortgage deferrals being passed onto tenants after the crisis, potentially leading to evictions despite government promises of protection.
Jeremy Corbyn
Ind
Islington North
Mr. Corbyn reiterates the need for better regulation in the private rented sector, including security of tenure and affordable rent levels. He also cites Shelter’s estimate that 20,000 eviction proceedings are already underway.
Matt Western
Lab
Warwick and Leamington
Mr. Western highlights a case in his constituency where an elderly resident received an eviction notice despite the Prime Minister's assurances of protection for private renters, underscoring the urgent need for legislation.
Jeremy Corbyn
Ind
Islington North
Mr. Corbyn stresses that tenants should be able to find new accommodation without being confined to their homes and demands a six-month ban on evictions along with rent suspension. He also advocates for greater tenant rights, control over excessive rents, and solutions to homelessness.
Diane Abbott
Ind
Hackney North and Stoke Newington
Ms. Abbott expresses concern for individuals without recourse to public funds who cannot work due to the economic shutdown and have no access to benefits, facing potential destitution.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Norman acknowledged the scale of the coronavirus threat, praising the Chancellor's initial £12 billion package for public services. He noted that further support was announced last week, including a £330 billion business loan guarantee scheme. Norman emphasised the Government’s readiness to do whatever it takes and highlighted their swift action in bringing forward legislative measures such as the Contingencies Fund Bill.
Sarah Jones
Lab
Croydon West
Jones asked for a guarantee from the Minister that there would be a mechanism for Parliament to question the Government about future announcements, especially regarding support for the self-employed. She noted that the announcement was scheduled for when the House is not sitting.
Russell-Moyle requested a Zoom call with all MPs to be briefed and discuss any future package announced by the Government, particularly regarding support for the self-employed. He asked for a simple yes or no answer.
Jesse Norman
Con
Hereford and South Herefordshire
Responded to questions about the social safety net, acknowledged a terrorist attack in Afghanistan, expressed concern for minorities seeking asylum. Emphasised the importance of discipline, patience and community spirit in combating the pandemic. Praised the response from various sectors including medical staff, engineering firms, armed forces, key workers, and volunteers. Announced a £5 billion covid-19 response fund and mentioned HMRC's fast-tracking of applications for denatured alcohol production to produce hand sanitiser. Addressed anomalies and feedback on business grants and loans.
Tan Dhesi
Lab
Slough
Expressed condolences over a terrorist attack in Afghanistan, raised concerns about minorities seeking asylum, and questioned the support provided by the Home Office.
Acknowledged key workers but expressed concern that some constituents are being required to attend work despite government guidance. Criticised the messaging from the Government on this issue as poor.
Rupa Huq
Lab
Ealing Central and Acton
Asked about the eligibility of domestic staff for 80% salary retention and private language schools falling above rateable value levels. Raised concerns over rising domestic violence and the status of abortion amendment.
Chi Onwurah
Lab
Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West
Highlighted anomalies in business grants for those without business premises or working in co-working spaces, and raised concerns about personal guarantees for loans affecting home ownership.
Bill Esterson
Lab
Sefton Central
Quoted Barclays stating that loans will require a director’s guarantee or personal liability. Raised concern over businesses closing due to the need for personal guarantees and impact on workers.
Sarah Jones
Lab
Croydon West
Questioned the Minister about the speed of response for supporting the self-employed, highlighting concerns from her local council regarding inadequate funding and lack of systems to manage new loan schemes.
Jeremy Corbyn
Ind
Islington North
Asked how quickly the Government will act on support measures for the self-employed, emphasising the high levels of stress among this group during the crisis.
Ian Blackford
SNP
Ross, Skye and Lochaber
The SNP leader praised the human spirit during the crisis but criticised the government for failing to support self-employed and unemployed people adequately. He urged the Chancellor to introduce a universal basic income, raise statutory sick pay, include self-employed in job retention schemes, strengthen social security protections, and proposed several measures on Universal Credit such as immediate up-front payments and removing the bedroom tax.
Jeremy Corbyn
Ind
Islington North
Corbyn briefly acknowledged the biscuits served during the debate and paid tribute to Ian Blackford's speech.
David Amess
Con
Southend West
The Member highlighted the need for a dedicated hotline system to assist MPs in dealing with constituents' queries during the crisis. He also suggested that public service broadcasts could benefit from contributions by Sir David Attenborough or Dame Judi Dench due to their respected status among the public. The MP praised local residents and organisations for coming together to support those affected, mentioning initiatives such as food delivery services run by Southend scouts and volunteering efforts by political party staff. Concerns were raised about charities struggling financially due to cancelled fundraising activities and the need for financial assistance for self-employed individuals. He cited specific examples of constituents facing difficulties in securing income and accessing essential goods like food during lockdown measures.
Sarah Jones
Lab
Croydon West
Sarah Jones expressed appreciation for civil servants working on the Government’s response to coronavirus and highlighted issues concerning renters. She pointed out that despite government promises, renters are still receiving eviction notices and emphasised the need for a six-month ban on evictions and suspension of rent payments with manageable repayment plans. She also mentioned the urgent need for guidance regarding Grenfell-style cladding removal in buildings and raised concerns about families living in temporary accommodation being displaced due to hotel closures.
Mitcham and Morden
The MP raised several urgent issues arising from the coronavirus crisis, including funding for children’s hospices, preventing evictions during lockdowns, advising homeowners on property sales, supporting charities, and providing emergency measures for prepayment metres. She emphasised that without immediate government intervention in these areas, many families would face dire consequences.
Dawn Butler
Lab
Brent East
Sentiments were shared regarding the essential staff during the pandemic, and a call to recognise key workers such as cleaners, delivery workers, care workers, postal workers, supermarket workers, and nurses. Emphasised the importance of increasing sick pay for key workers. Raised concerns about domestic abuse survivors who may suffer in silence due to lockdowns. Highlighted the need for personal protective equipment (PPE) and tests for healthcare workers. Criticised austerity measures that have exacerbated the situation. Called on the Government to prioritise key workers, improve wages, and ensure better terms and conditions. Urged everyone to take responsibility for their actions during the crisis.
Dunbartonshire East
The speaker emphasised the need for clarity and reinforcement of expectations regarding Government support measures, particularly in relation to employers adhering to guidance. He highlighted concerns about self-employed individuals and those on zero-hours contracts missing out on support schemes. Additionally, he proposed raising statutory sick pay levels, abolishing the bedroom tax, scrapping the rape clause, and considering a universal basic income for better welfare support. Thomson also criticised the NHS health surcharge for foreign workers and called for greater recognition of their contributions.
Birmingham Selly Oak
Russell-Moyle expressed gratitude towards the former leader of his party and criticised the parliamentary authorities for failing to organise online proceedings during a crisis. He detailed his personal experience with coronavirus and highlighted the financial struggles faced by many workers on statutory sick pay. He advocated for an improved sickness benefit system that offers a percentage of earnings based on contribution. Additionally, he addressed issues related to furlough schemes, rent payments, and housing conditions, emphasising the need for mortgage holiday suspensions without accruing interest or penalties. He also raised concerns about universal credit and disability benefits appeals, suggesting continued payment at higher rates until appeal outcomes are determined. Lastly, he discussed the challenges faced by self-employed individuals like Toni, a high-risk vulnerable construction worker, and advocated for a simpler approach such as a universal basic income.
Chris Stephens
SNP
Glasgow South West
Stephens highlighted the need for businesses to follow public health advice and close if necessary. He expressed concern over employers threatening workers with their jobs due to illness or risk factors, calling for fining such businesses and naming them publicly. He also raised issues regarding the job retention scheme's misuse by some companies seeking layoffs, stressing the importance of protecting worker rights and ensuring fair application of support measures post-crisis. Stephens further discussed problems within Government service centres and called for better protections and social distancing compliance in these environments.
Zarah Sultana
Lab
Coventry South
Sultana paid tribute to the outgoing Leader of the Opposition and shadow Chancellor, Jeremy Corbyn and John McDonnell respectively. She emphasised their principled leadership and commitment to championing the interests of the working class over decades.
Tan Dhesi
Lab
Slough
Dhesi echoed support for the outgoing Leader of the Opposition, praising his principles, decency, and long-standing commitment. He expressed it was an honour to serve as the Leader's permanent private secretary.
Zarah Sultana
Your Party
Coventry South
I wholeheartedly agree with the criticism of the decade-long public service cuts and underfunding of the NHS. The crisis has exposed the inadequacy of resources for key workers, leading to a lack of protective equipment, ventilators, and tests. I commend the bravery and dedication of NHS staff and other essential workers, highlighting their importance in society. However, the Government's response is insufficient; it allows non-essential businesses to force employees to work and excludes millions of self-employed individuals from support measures. The job retentions scheme does not guarantee jobs or provide adequate support for those who are self-employed. I urge the Government to extend this scheme to the self-employed, raise universal credit rates to a livable level, and suspend sanctions on social security recipients. Additionally, migrants should be granted access to healthcare and financial aid regardless of their immigration status. The debate also touches on the need for rent suspension and eviction bans to protect renters during the pandemic.
Kevan Jones
16:11:00
I express condolences to those affected by the coronavirus outbreak and thank essential workers, including NHS staff, emergency services, civil servants, local government officers, retail distribution workers, postal workers, and armed forces personnel. I urge people not to take out their frustrations on individuals working in essential roles during these challenging times. I am disappointed that the Government has yet to address the needs of self-employed individuals who are now facing financial difficulties due to the pandemic, as evidenced by cases such as Andrew Brown, a graphic designer from my constituency whose business collapsed overnight. These people do not have savings or independent wealth and rely on weekly income. Urgent measures must be taken to support them, but the Government's delay in providing these measures is causing deep concern among those affected.
Catherine West
Lab
Hornsey and Friern Barnet
I agree with my right hon. Friend that it is deeply disappointing that the package to support self-employed individuals may not be scrutinised by Members of Parliament as it will likely come out on a day when the House is not sitting, preventing proper scrutiny.
Kevan Jones
Lab
North Durham
The speaker urges the Government to urgently support businesses and individuals during the crisis. He highlights issues with employer messaging, communication problems within government schemes, and calls for protective equipment for prison officers working in high-risk environments. Additionally, he emphasises the importance of supporting local charities and community organisations.
Stephen Timms
Lab
East Ham
Welcomes the employment support package but criticises the delay in providing assistance to self-employed individuals. He also raises concerns about the strain on universal credit due to increased demand and highlights issues with processing times for new applications.
Chi Onwurah
Lab
Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West
Supports the idea that the universal credit system needs to be scrapped in favour of a more effective alternative due to its inability to handle increased demand during crises.
Tan Dhesi
Lab
Slough
Supports increased support for food banks, noting that many are closing due to an ageing volunteer demographic. Emphasises the need for assistance from the Government during times of crisis.
Catherine West
Lab
Hornsey and Friern Barnet
Highlights concerns about food product availability in supermarkets, especially for elderly people trying to avoid food banks but still struggling with food insecurity. Suggests the need for intervention from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
Stephen Timms
Lab
East Ham
Advocates for changes in universal credit rules, including converting advances to grants during crises, lifting savings limits for eligibility, suspending sanctions due to current conditions, easing deductions from past debts, and increasing local housing allowance. Urges the government to provide temporary recourse to public funds for those with leave to remain but not indefinite leave.
Bill Esterson
Lab
Sefton Central
Emphasises that people cannot afford to stay at home if they do not have sufficient financial support, which applies to many self-employed individuals and those without recourse to public funds. Calls for health considerations in all policy decisions.
Bill Esterson
Lab
Sefton Central
Stressed the importance of protecting vulnerable groups and ensuring financial security for all. Emphasised that essential construction work must stop to prevent spread, citing an example of workers forced to go to work by employers solely interested in profits. Highlighted the need for no evictions and rent relief as part of 'everything it takes' to combat the crisis. Called for a delay in credit card repayments and loans due to financial insecurity. Pointed out gaps in job retention schemes, advocating for alternative arrangements for charities. Urged immediate action for self-employed individuals who face delays in receiving support. Condemned businesses that disadvantage people during this emergency.
Dawn Butler
Lab
Brent East
Asked how the Government can reconcile allowing construction workers to travel on public transport with their advice to stay at home, highlighting the contradiction and potential for spreading the virus.
Catherine West
Lab
Hornsey and Friern Barnet
Noted the struggle of religious charities due to a lack of regular income from weekly collections, urging alternative arrangements to support these organisations during the crisis.
Chi Onwurah
Lab
Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West
Speaks about the importance of supporting self-employed individuals during the crisis, criticises the Government's delay in providing support for them. Mentions concerns regarding employers not following social distancing guidelines and calls for immediate measures to protect employees and freelancers.
Bill Esterson
Lab
Sefton Central
Supports Chi Onwurah’s arguments, highlights the high interest rates banks are charging as an indication of their approach in making others pay after the financial crisis.
Chi Onwurah
Lab
Newcastle upon Tyne Central
Ms Onwurah emphasised the importance of addressing the digital divide exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic, highlighting that nearly 10% of adults do not have internet access at home and over half of adult non-users are aged over 75. She expressed concern about the lack of detailed plans from internet service providers regarding network capacity for increased remote work and learning needs. Ms Onwurah called on the Government to support digital skills development, particularly through initiatives like #techmums, and advocated for secure capacity for essential services. She criticised the inefficiencies created by austerity measures and called for a more resilient economy post-crisis.
Government Response
Norman noted that while he couldn't guarantee a Zoom call, he would pass on the request. He reiterated that there would be ample opportunity to debate future measures when Parliament returns. He also stressed the importance of individuals staying at home as per Government guidelines and acknowledged the need for financial support in enabling people to adhere to these guidelines. Responded to several questions, provided details on government support measures including a £5 billion covid-19 response fund, fast-tracking of applications for hand sanitiser production, and addressed concerns about business grants and loans. Emphasised the importance of community spirit and unity in tackling the pandemic. Acknowledged concerns about supporting the self-employed quickly. Announced measures including removing the universal credit minimum income floor, deferring self-assessment tax payments until 2021, offering business interruption loans to sole traders, and providing hardship funding for local councils.
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