Colum Eastwood backs continuation of £20 Universal Credit uplift saying it is a lifeline for families

The Foyle MP voted on Monday to support a Westminster motion that calls on the British Conservative government to stop their planned cut to the increased payment.

“Last year, Universal Credit and the basic element of working tax credit were raised by £20 a week. It beggars belief that Boris Johnson’s government would even consider ending this uplift when so many on Universal Credit in Britain and the North are still struggling.

“Over the past 10 months, I have had people contact me who have struggled to cope through this pandemic. They’ve told me how this £20 weekly uplift in Universal Credit has been a life raft for them," said the SDLP leader.

He said the uplift is providing families on Universal Credit with an extra £1,000 per year.

"The removal of this support would plunge many families into poverty, severely reducing the standard of living for thousands. Boris Johnson can no longer talk about building a post-covid recovery when he is willing to take support from those who need it most.”

“The fact that the British government have not supported calls to keep the uplift at this stage just shows how completely out of touch Boris Johnson and his government are with the struggles of ordinary people."

"I'm proud to support the continuation of this uplift. It should be made permanent and extended to all legacy benefits."