Cost of Living Benefit Levels 2023-11-13
2023-11-13
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Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Recent warnings from the Trussell Trust indicate food banks are at breaking point, with new figures showing 1.5 million emergency food parcels distributed between April and September this year.
What recent assessment has been made of the adequacy of benefit levels in light of cost-of-living increases? The Trussell Trust warns that food banks are at 'breaking point' due to more people being unable to afford essentials, with 1.5 million emergency food parcels distributed recently.
The Government have spent £94 billion on cost of living support over and above the 10.1% increase in benefit rates since April 2023, covering both 2022-23 and 2023-24 periods. Winter fuel payments will be made at £600 or £500.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not commit to backing the joint campaign for an essentials guarantee within universal credit.
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Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Trussell Trust warns that food banks are at breaking point due to rising cost-of-living pressures, affecting millions who cannot afford essentials.
Despite previous assurances, the Trussell Trust and Joseph Rowntree Foundation warn that food banks face critical shortages. New figures show 1.5 million emergency food parcels distributed between April and September this year. Given these alarming statistics, will the Minister support their campaign for an essential guarantee within universal credit to ensure basic needs are met?
The hon. Member will be aware of £94 billion cost of living support over 2022-23 and 2023-24, alongside the 10.1% benefit rate increase from April 2023.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not commit to backing the joint campaign for an essentials guarantee within universal credit.
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Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The journey with benefit rates over the last decade and a half has been seen as haphazard, making it unclear to people what benefits should cover.
Given the unpredictable path of benefit rates for nearly 15 years, would the Minister agree that it is uncertain how one assesses these levels? If not convinced by an essentials guarantee, will the Government commission a study to determine if benefits adequately cover basic needs?
My hon. Friend's point is noted, but decisions on uprating rely on ongoing discussions and assessments; this has been the established process for some time.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not commit to conducting a study to assess benefit levels.
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Response accuracy