Postpone Universal Credit , says MP Gavin

A Paisley MP is renewing calls for the Tory Government to halt the roll-out of trouble-strewn Universal Credit.

The controversial benefit system is due to be introduced in Renfrewshire from September with poverty-stricken families braced for even further hardship.

MP Gavin Newlands criticised the Government’s Esther McVey, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, for failing to accept any of the solutions offered by the SNP.

The member for Paisley and Renfrewshire North called on her to delay the roll-out until the problems can be addressed.

He said: “The Tory UK Government’s handling of Universal Credit has been shambolic.

“The pilot studies across the country have shown that there are serious issues with this new benefit, including how its plunging people already on low incomes into rent arrears and debt.

“In addition, it has also been shown to cause job losses – the very opposite of what Universal Credit is intended to achieve.

“The SNP has continually offered solutions to the UK Government as to how they can fix Universal Credit. Unsurprisingly, the Tories, in their typical arrogant manner, have chosen not to listen to our calls.

“Universal Credit is due to be rolled out across Renfrewshire in September.

“Esther McVey should pause the roll-out and fix the multitude of problems that exist with Universal Credit before Renfrewshire claimants pay the price.”

Scathing pilot studies have revealed serious problems with Universal Credit.

A National Audit Office report concluded that Universal Credit has failed to deliver value for money.