Debates between Earl Howe and Lord Bishop of Peterborough during the 2015-2017 Parliament

Benefits: Sanctions

Debate between Earl Howe and Lord Bishop of Peterborough
Thursday 10th September 2015

(9 years, 2 months ago)

Lords Chamber
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Earl Howe Portrait The Minister of State, Ministry of Defence (Earl Howe) (Con)
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My Lords, I think it is the turn of the Bishops’ Benches, and then perhaps we can hear from the Benches opposite.

Lord Bishop of Peterborough Portrait The Lord Bishop of Peterborough
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My Lords, the Feeding Britain report showed that some people have been sanctioned for missing or being late for appointments when it is not their own fault. Is it not possible for the staff at Jobcentre Plus to be given some discretion in whether or not to apply sanctions? Along the same lines, is it fair that some people in rural communities have to spend £7 or more on bus fares to get to routine appointments when the likes of me, who can well afford bus fares, are entitled to a free bus pass?