Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, how many children he expects will be lifted out of poverty by the introduction of universal credit.

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.