Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Lord Watts and Andy Sawford

Monday 4th February 2013 Commons Chamber

[Mr Dave Watts (St Helens North) (Lab)]

1. What plans he has for reform of council tax benefit; and if he will make a statement.

[Andy Sawford (Corby) (Lab/Co-op)]

11. What plans he has for reform of council tax benefit; and if he will make a statement.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government (Brandon Lewis)]

Spending on council tax benefit doubled under the last Administration, and welfare reform is vital to tackle the budget deficit we inherited from the last Labour Government. Replacing council tax benefit with local support schemes gives councils control over how to achieve a 10% saving, and a direct incentive to help local people into work.