Universal Credit People in Employment 2026-06-29
2026-06-29
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP noted an assessment by his Department showing trends in the level of people in employment claiming Universal Credit.
What assessment has been made of trends in the level of people in employment claiming universal credit? In January 2026, 3.1 million people were on universal credit in employment, representing 37.8% of all claimants.
The Department publishes data on universal credit and keeps labour market trends under review. Universal credit is designed to support people into and in work, allowing individuals to move into employment while continuing to receive support as their earnings increase.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific assessment of the trend was not provided; response generalises about universal credit's design
Keeping Labour Market Trends Under Review
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP highlighted testimony from workers in large, profitable companies who earn such low wages that they rely on Universal Credit to meet basic needs. He noted that 1.2 million people on universal credit are working at their capacity and receiving state support due to low wages.
Does the Minister agree that the taxpayer should not be left to subsidise poverty pay paid by companies employing more than 250 people? Will the Government require those companies to report how many workers rely on universal credit because of low wages?
I acknowledge what my hon. Friend says and I commend him for his work on the Right to Food UK Commission. Many people in retail and care sectors earn insufficiently at the end of the week, relying on foodbanks. I invite my hon. Friend to come and talk to me about this issue.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment or action regarding taxpayer subsidising poverty pay was not addressed
Inviting Conversation
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
The University of Cumbria has shown that average hill farm incomes are below the national minimum wage, yet farmers often cannot claim universal credit due to monthly income assessment criteria when they have fluctuating annual incomes.
Will the Minister meet me and farmers' representatives to ensure that farmers in poverty get the support they deserve?
Yes, I am very happy to meet the hon. Gentleman.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy