Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Stephen Timms and David Taylor

Monday 23rd June 2025 Commons Chamber

[David Taylor (Hemel Hempstead) (Lab)]

T9. A single parent in my constituency has worked full time for more than 20 years but is now in personal crisis because universal credit is unable to reimburse the childcare costs she has paid in advance. I hope the Minister agrees that it is deeply unfair that my constituent is left short every month despite working incredibly hard. Will he set out ways in which the Government are supporting hard-working women with childcare needs?

[Sir Stephen Timms]

My hon. Friend’s constituent will benefit from the big increase in the universal credit standard allowance, which we have talked about, and from free school meals for her children. Somebody who starts work or increases their hours may also be eligible for support with up-front childcare costs. The flexible support fund can award the full cost for up to a month of fees to a childcare provider in advance of the care being delivered, so that may be an option for his constituent.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Stephen Timms and David Taylor

Monday 16th December 2024 Commons Chamber

[Sir Stephen Timms]

We are watching very carefully the progress of migration from tax credits to universal credit, which will be complete in the early part of next year, but I would be very happy to meet the hon. Lady and discuss some of the difficulties she is seeing.

[David Taylor (Hemel Hempstead) (Lab)]

6. What steps she is taking to help reduce levels of poverty.