Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to end the poverty premium.

Since 2010 there are 1,000,000 fewer people, including 300,000 fewer children, in absolute low income (before housing costs), both record lows.

The government has a range of policies to support households with their energy bills such as the Warm Home Discount, Energy Company Obligation and Winter Fuel Payment schemes. The government is also committed to ensuring that individuals, regardless of their background or income, have access to useful and affordable financial products and services, and has established a Financial Inclusion Policy Forum, which provides leadership and ensures collaboration across government and with the sector in tackling financial exclusion.