This is the biggest public health emergency in a generation and I am encouraged by the clear commitment to supporting people through this challenging time, with unprecedented packages of support rolled out for businesses and individuals alike.

I supported the Labour motion to continue financial support to people who are claiming Universal Credit 

Claimants on legacy benefits can make a claim for UC if they believe that they will be better off. However, claimants should check their eligibility before applying to UC as legacy benefits will end when a claim to UC is submitted. I must stress that claimants will not be able to return to legacy benefits in the future.

Legacy benefits were increased by £600m (1.7%) from April 2020 and received a further £100m (0.5%) increase from April 2021 as part of the Government’s annual up-rating exercise. It is important to add that temporary increases to UC and Tax Credits have been part of a wider support package including mortgage holidays and income protection schemes. The increase in Local Housing Allowance rates benefits both Universal Credit claimants and legacy claimants in receipt of housing support. This significant investment cost almost £1 billion and ensures that more than 1 million households will see an increase, on average, of £600 per year.