Number of Tory rebels doubles over Universal Credit roll-out
‘We must reduce the speed of roll-out until we have a system that reliably pays claimants on time’
TWENTY FIVE Tory MPS are prepared to rebel over the Government’s flagship welfare reforms amid mounting calls for a “pause” in the roll-out of Universal Credit.
David Gauke, the Work and Pensions Secretary, last week tried to broker a truce with MPS by insisting that a system of advance payments was already in place to help those struggling when they change systems.
Despite the move, Sir John Major, the former Tory Prime Minister, described the system yesterday as “operationally messy, socially unfair and unforgiving”.
The Daily Telegraph has learned the number of MPS prepared to rebel over the issue since Mr Gauke’s announcement has more than doubled from a dozen to 25. The Tory rebels will meet in Westminster today to discuss their next move.
The backbench revolt, which has been spurred on by Sir John’s intervention, risks wiping out the Tories’ majority in the Commons if Labour forces a vote on the issue.
Heidi Allen, who is leading the campaign, told The Daily Telegraph: “I still believe we must reduce the speed of roll-out until we have a system that reliably pays claimants on time. I welcome Mr Gauke’s announcement that advance payments will be made more readily available, but surely if the majority of claimants need them, then that must mean the inbuilt six-week wait isn’t compatible with helping those just about managing to make ends meet?”
On Sir John’s intervention, she said: “I am grateful to him for reinforcing the belief that I am fighting the right fight.” The Government’s own figures show 24 per cent of new claimants have had to wait more than six weeks to receive their first full payment.
A DWP spokesman said: “We know that over time people adjust to managing monthly payments and clear any rent arrears. But, in situations where it is necessary, we make arrangements for their rent to paid directly to landlords. We can pay out an advance in five working days or the same day if someone is in urgent need.”