Oldham’s Liberal Democrats have condemned the Government for their refusal to fund welfare payments in line with inflation. Liberal Democrat Leader councillor Howard Sykes MBE said, “I’m horrified that support for the most vulnerable, could soon be cut to the bone, just when it’s needed most. I know many people are feeling anxiety over this potential blow, which could push many of them into poverty and hurt their ability to care for their loved ones.”
The shocking figures come from the House of Commons Library research commissioned by the Liberal Democrats. Councillor Sykes warned that: “These real-terms cuts to Universal Credit do not include any additional cuts the new Chancellor might propose on November 17th.”
The research shows that a staggering total of more than 74,000 people across Oldham could end up seeing their support cut should the Conservatives go through with their plans, with carers and those who are disabled standing to lose out the most.
Councillor Howard Sykes has urged the Government to immediately upgrade Universal Credit across the board for all those who need it.
Councillor Sykes said: “It just shows how out of touch and heartless this government has become. They’re on the side of bankers and billionaires whilst ordinary people in our borough are being ignored. The government can put an end to the anguish and sleepless nights facing so many people by funding Universal Credit in line with inflation and preventing the most vulnerable falling into poverty.”
“The latest Conservative Chancellor has delayed his autumn statement. I hope he uses the extra time to come to the right decision on Universal Credit; and fund it in line with inflation so that families in Oldham are not pushed into poverty.”