Welfare Reform

Deirdre Costigan Excerpts
Tuesday 18th March 2025

(2 days, 13 hours ago)

Commons Chamber
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Liz Kendall Portrait Liz Kendall
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We are considering putting jobcentres into GP surgeries and community centres. I believe in a jobs and careers service going to where people are, rather than always expecting them to come to us. I think I am right in saying that authorities in some parts of the country, such as the combined authority in Manchester, have commissioned specific talking therapies for people who are looking for work. That is the direction in which we want to move, and I should be more than happy to discuss it with my hon. Friend in more detail.

Deirdre Costigan Portrait Deirdre Costigan (Ealing Southall) (Lab)
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Hundreds of disabled people in my constituency want to work, but they often face absolute poverty pay and feel that they would be better off on benefits. On average, disabled workers are paid £2.35 an hour, or £4,300 a year, less than other workers. How will Labour’s commitment in the King’s Speech to a new equality Bill ensure that disabled workers will finally receive equal pay at work, and can choose a good job over being—

Judith Cummins Portrait Madam Deputy Speaker (Judith Cummins)
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Order. I call the Secretary of State.