I wanted to follow up on my previous correspondence after reviewing the independent impact assessment and speaking with many constituents on the issues.
The assessment indicates that these changes could push 250,000 more people, including 50,000 children, into relative poverty after housing costs. I’m deeply concerned that, in their current form, these proposals could cause real hardship for many people in Weston, Worle, and our surrounding villages. I cannot support them without greater clarity on how the Government intends to mitigate this impact and what other reforms might be introduced to protect the most vulnerable.
I have raise our serious concerns alongside other Labour MP’s, particularly around the proposed changes to PIP eligibility and the removal of the health component of Universal Credit for people under 22.
I believe these proposals could do real harm and must not proceed without proper scrutiny and meaningful input from disabled people and those directly affected. That’s why I am calling on the Government to extend and expand the consultation on the Pathways to Work Green Paper to include the proposed PIP eligibility changes, so that people have a genuine opportunity to be heard.
I am also urging that a full, independent analysis of all proposals be published and presented to Parliament before any new legislation is introduced or voted on.
I became an MP to represent our community with honesty and determination, especially during challenging and complex times like this. I genuinely appreciate you taking the time to contact me and share your thoughts.
Thank you again for your patience during what I know is an incredibly stressful and uncertain period for many.
