Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP inquired about potential inflation impacts on the Department for Work and Pensions' budget.
What recent discussions have you had with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions regarding the possible effects of inflation on their department's budget?
I have regular discussions with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions. If the question relates to the operating budget, Departments are expected to live within their existing CSR21 allocations. For benefits generally, a statutory process is ongoing without decisions yet made.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about increasing social security payments in line with inflation was not directly addressed.
If The Question Relates To Operating Budget
Normal Statutory Process
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP inquired about potential inflation impacts and whether there are any plans or representations to increase social security payments accordingly.
Has the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions made any representations to increase social security payments in line with inflation? The government's failure to do so will result in increased food banks, fuel poverty, and child poverty. When will you commit to raising social security in line with inflation?
I am not offering any running commentary on internal discussions. The statutory process is ongoing, but we are mindful of cost-of-living pressures. I mention the large increase in the national minimum wage and vacancies exceeding unemployment benefits.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about committing to raising social security payments was not directly addressed.
Running Commentary
Statutory Process Ongoing
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP inquired about the Government's plans for tax cuts and their potential effects on the poorest citizens.
Will the Government ensure that forthcoming tax cuts do not negatively affect the poorest people in the country?
The first objective is to grow the economy, which helps lift wages and create jobs. The Government balances fairness and cost-of-living pressures with taxpayer interests when making decisions on tax cuts.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about ensuring tax cuts do not negatively affect the poorest was not directly addressed.
Growing Economy
Cost Of Living Pressures
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP inquired about the Government's advice to those earning below £12,000 a year who rely on universal credit due to high childcare costs.
What is your advice for constituents earning under £12,000 who cannot afford work because of high childcare costs and are on the poverty line? Will you provide comfort that the Government will make the right decision on uprating benefits?
The statutory process is ongoing. People on lower incomes benefit from a significant minimum wage increase and an unprecedented intervention of £37 billion, disproportionately aiding those on lower incomes with an extra £1,200 this year.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about providing comfort regarding the decision to uprate benefits was not directly addressed.
Statutory Process Ongoing
Response accuracy