Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what recent assessment he has made of the effect of the introduction of universal credit on the number of children living in (a) absolute and (b) relative poverty.

The Government is committed to eliminating child poverty and improving life chances for children. We know that work is the best route out of poverty, and Universal Credit is designed to strengthen incentives for parents to move into and progress in work. Evidence shows claimants move into work significantly faster and earn more than under the current system. In addition, Universal Credit now provides for 85% of childcare costs meaning more support for hardworking families.