SDLP Foyle MP Colum Eastwood
A non-binding Labour motion calling for the Universal Credit top-up to be kept in place beyond March 31 passed by 278 votes to none after a Commons debate on Monday.
Six Tory MPs defied party orders to abstain and voted with Labour, adding to the pressure on the PM on the issue.
Speaking after the debate, Foyle MP Colum Eastwood said: “I am delighted to have supported this motion which calls on the Government to ensure the £20 per week Universal Credit uplift remains in place for those in need.
“The uplift of £20 per week for those on Universal Credit has been a lifeline for many who have recently lost their jobs and their livelihoods as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic.
“Last year, Universal Credit and the basic element of working tax credit were raised by £20 a week.
“It beggars belief that Boris Johnson’s government would even consider ending this uplift when so many on Universal Credit in Britain and the North are still struggling.
“Over the past 10 months, I have had people contact me who have struggled to cope through this pandemic.
“They’ve told me how this £20 weekly uplift in Universal Credit has been a life raft for them.
“This uplift provides families on Universal Credit with an extra £1,000 per year.
“The removal of this support would plunge many families into poverty, severely reducing the standard of living for thousands.
“Boris Johnson can no longer talk about building a post-covid recovery when he is willing to take support from those who need it most.
“The fact that the British government have not supported calls to keep the uplift at this stage just shows how completely out of touch Boris Johnson and his government are with the struggles of ordinary people.
“I’m proud to support the continuation of this uplift.
“It should be made permanent and extended to all legacy benefits.”
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