Thank you for getting in touch about the #5WeeksTooLong campaign, organised by the Trussell Trust.
It is important not to lose sight of the fact that the welfare system was in urgent need of reform, and the Universal Credit system was designed with the intent of making it easier for people to move into employment and ensuring that it would always pay to be in work. This principle was accepted by all major parties in parliament. I welcomed the announcement of Universal Credit at the time, and still maintain that the system has the potential to transform the lives of millions of people for the better.
However, I recognise that the system is not yet working perfectly, and whilst the Government has already implemented some important changes (which I played my part in lobbying for) there are still some problems that need addressing. I have previously made representations to the Prime Minister and Ministers in the Department for Work and Pensions about the concerns that have been raised with me by individuals and organisations in my constituency about Universal Credit and will continue to do so. We all want it to work effectively, as intended.
On previous occasions, the Government has demonstrated it is in listening mode. For instance, I was encouraged at the end of 2017 when, in response to the lobbying by myself and several colleagues (on both sides of the House), the Government announced an additional £1.5 billion package of support for the Universal Credit system. I am continuing to press the Government on the need to take an evidence-based approach to the roll-out, and in the House of Commons Chamber I made it clear to the DWP Minister Alok Sharma that, whilst I have strong support for the principles and intent of Universal Credit, I would be supportive of increasing its funding and making further changes to it if needed in order to make sure Universal Credit works as intended. I am committed to having a strong safety net where people need it, and that is why I am pleased the Government has committed to a ‘test and learn approach’ to delivering Universal Credit and has made improvements where necessary, such as through removing seven waiting days and introducing 100 per cent advances.
I appreciate you taking the time to write and can assure you I will continue to make representations to the Government about the importance of giving Universal Credit the appropriate support to enable it to work as intended and to ensure that the most vulnerable in society are protected.
Thank you again for taking the time to get in touch.
