Laws backs lib dem plans to reform tax credits

David Laws, MP for Yeovil constituency, today launched Liberal Democrats plans to reform the Tax Credit system in order to deliver more stability for families and more targeted help to those on lower incomes.

Liberal Democrat plans, released in the ‘Freedom from Poverty: Opportunity for All’ policy paper, which David Laws co-authored, would introduce fixed six-monthly awards of tax credits and increase the amount paid to families on lower incomes. All families will also benefit from an increase in Child Benefit by around £5 per week. The changes would end the overpayments crisis which has undermined tax credits and driven many people into poverty. .

David Laws said,

“The Lib Dem proposals for reforming the tax credit system would bring more stability and help for families by eradicating overpayments and ending the unfairness of the current system.

“By introducing 6 monthly fixed awards, families would not be vulnerable to incurring overpayments which leave many in dire financial straits when the Government claws them back.

“The Lib Dems would also raise Child Benefit to all families by around £5 – lifting 150,000 children out of poverty nationwide – making vital progress towards eradicating child poverty.

“These policies will help families on low incomes which have been let down by the Government’s erratic tax credit system.”

Category: Constituency News