Cost of Living Increase Universal Credit 2022-03-15
2022-03-15
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
With the cost of living increasing, millions of UK families are facing financial hardships. The current universal credit uprate is set at 3.1%, based on CPI in September 2021, while recent inflation exceeds 7%. Multiple organizations warn about severe impacts.
What discussions has the Minister had with Cabinet colleagues regarding reviewing the universal credit inflationary uplift due to rising costs of living? Millions of families depend on benefits like Universal Credit. Recent inflation is over 7%, but the uprate was set at 3.1%. The Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Trussell Trust highlight real jeopardy for families facing cuts of over £500 annually.
CPI has been used as the default measure for benefits since 2011. The Government is providing £20 billion support, including £9 billion for energy bills and a reduced taper rate allowing families to keep an additional £1,000 annually.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Did not directly address the need for reassessment of inflationary uplift
Cpi Has Been Used Since 2011
Providing Support Worth Over £20 Billion
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
With inflation at an all-time high and the current benefit uprates inadequate, families are struggling to make ends meet. The government's plan for winter support has been criticized as insufficient.
Will the Minister reassess the 3.1% universal credit uplift given recent CPI increases? Families face real cuts of over £500 annually due to inflation exceeding 7%. Many families are already struggling with heating and food bills, making next winter a critical period.
We have introduced measures such as £20 billion support for families. Energy prices are fixed until autumn, and significant funds are being allocated now.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Did not specify bringing forward the April increase to autumn
Introduced Range Of Measures
Energy Price Fixed Until Autumn
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
With the winter approaching and inflation high, many families are concerned about whether current support measures will be enough to cover heating and food expenses. The timing of benefit increases is crucial.
Will the 3.1% uprate in Universal Credit next month suffice for families throughout winter? If there's recognition of a problem, will April's increase be brought forward to this autumn?
We have measures in place like £20 billion support for families, energy prices fixed until autumn.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Did not explicitly state bringing forward the April increase to autumn
Range Of Measures Introduced
Energy Price Set Until Autumn
Response accuracy