UK: WELFARE 'REFORMS' WILL INCREASE CHILD POVERTY
The UK Labour government's so-called 'welfare to work' reform risks further empoverishing vulnerable groups, the Celtic League have said.
In correspondence to Work and Pensions Minister, James Purnell, the League has urged the government to heed the advice of the Social Security Advisory Committee or risk further increasing child poverty. Areas such as Wales, Scotland and Cornwall will be particularly vulnerable to such benefits 'gerrymandering'.
"Rt. Hon. James Purnell MP Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Caxton House Tothill Street London SW1H 9DA
21 November 2008
Dear Minister,
I have read with concern that the United Kingdom government is ignoring disquiet expressed by Sir Richard Tilt, Chairman of the Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC) who has suggested that there should be a two year moratorium on changes to social security benefits for lone parents, disabled people and the long-term jobless proposed in your government so-called 'welfare to work' reforms.
Sir Richard has said that, in his view, these changes will push more people closer to poverty and this must impact on vulnerable groups including of course children.
Given that child poverty levels in Britain are already at an appalling level we urge the government to revisit its decision to implement these changes and give due weight to the concerns expressed by SSAC.
Yours sincerely
J B Moffatt"
Related link at:
Links here to articles of poverty and low incomes in Britain, Ireland and the Isle of Man:
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J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League 21/11/08
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