Words just a start.. we need action

SO, finally, the Government has admitted the link between foodbanks and Universal Credit – six years after it became obvious to everyone else.

Six years ago, I visited the test areas of Oldham, Tameside, Warrington and Wigan to find foodbanks inundated by claimants. I remember seeing one man in Oldham with his head in his hands, saying: “Five weeks before my kids can eat?”

I met couple Tony Carson and Sue Rimmington in November, forced to live in a tent on the York flood plain after losing their health and jobs.

I’ve spoken to dying cancer patients living in squalor during chemo and a man with mental health problems living on bags of biscuits from Poundland.

Yet for six years the rollout has continued, like a slowrolling tank division of misery.

And, despite Amber Rudd’s words, another 10,000 people will move across to the sinking Tory flagship in July.

Admitting they did wrong is a first step. But if the Tories are serious about stopping the hostile environment of UC they will halt the roll-out until it is fixed. Amber Rudd should know that actions speak louder than words.