Covid-19: Child Poverty

Debate between Baroness Stedman-Scott and Baroness Lane-Fox of Soho

Monday 15th June 2020 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Stedman-Scott [V]]

I am well aware of the situation in Leicester; there has been much in the press about it. The Government are absolutely committed to supporting hard-working families. While any reduction in council tax relates to MHCLG, I am pleased that the Government have provided significant funding to reduce council tax bills for a short period. I will write to the noble Baroness on that.

[Baroness Lane-Fox of Soho (CB) [V]]

There are currently about 700,000 children with no access to internet facilities at home. On 20 April, the Education Secretary announced a £100 million fund to ease this problem. Can the Minister please tell me what percentage of this fund has been distributed and how many families there are left to help?

[Baroness Stedman-Scott [V]]

I completely understand the point the noble Baroness is making. To answer her question, I will need to go away, get the facts and write to her.