Universal Credit

Debate between Baroness Coussins and Baroness Stedman-Scott

Tuesday 2nd June 2020 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Stedman-Scott]

We have increased the local housing allowance to cover the lowest 30th percentile of the local market, and alternative payment arrangements to landlords have been put in place. If claimants have great difficulties, they can speak to their work coach or client adviser, who, if there is a way to help them, will do their best to find it.

[Baroness Coussins (CB)]

My Lords, the five-week wait has significantly increased household debt and anxiety as a result of council tax arrears. Will the Minister please press the Government to issue clear guidance to local authorities that collection and enforcement activity on council tax arrears, including all bailiff contact, should be suspended for a minimum of three months?

[Baroness Stedman-Scott]

I am happy to take that point back to the department and will write to the noble Baroness in due course.