Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether he has made an assessment of the potential impact of the High Income Child Benefit Charge on households in which one partner experiences a temporary reduction or loss of earnings as a result of serious illness.

The High Income Child Benefit Charge is currently the best way to manage Child Benefit expenditure, helping to ensure the sustainability of the public finances. The Government recognises concerns raised about the impact it can have on single-earner households in certain circumstances.

The Chancellor makes decisions on tax policy at fiscal events, and does not routinely comment on proposals.