Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment she has made of the impact of universal credit deductions on household budgets.

No such assessment has been made.

There is a limit placed on the overall amount that can be deducted from Universal Credit. Formerly 40% of the Universal Credit Standard Allowance, this was reduced from 30% to 25% in April 2021. Processes are in place to ensure deductions are manageable and customers can contact DWP Debt Management if they are experiencing financial hardship, in order to discuss a reduction in their rate of repayment or a temporary suspension, depending on their financial circumstances.