Comment on today’s financial statement

Responding to today’s financial statement, Alison Garnham Chief Executive of Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) said:

Despite his rhetoric about supporting families, this was in reality a statement for the 1 per cent, saying more about bankers’ bonuses than helping hungry kids.

"Today was a vital opportunity to provide reassurance and support to those who need it the most – but instead the government risks a collision with reality, and the 4 million kids currently living in poverty in the UK will be forced to pay the price.

"In the short term benefits must rise with inflation as soon as possible, the benefit cap must be scrapped, and deductions paused to help families get through winter. And sooner rather than later government must grapple with the fact that our social security system is there for a reason – and investing in it is the best way to keep kids and their parents out of poverty.

On the decision to increase work-search requirements for universal credit claimants working up to 15 hours per week, Ms Garnham said:

The Government could and should be making a big difference for low-earners who want to work more.  But sanctions make people poor, not help them get jobs. Investing in skills training and more affordable childcare would make the difference they need.

Note to editors:

CPAG media office: 07816 909302.