Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Emma Lewell-Buck and Greg Clark

Monday 14th December 2015 Commons Chamber

[Mrs Emma Lewell-Buck (South Shields) (Lab)]

T8. Crippling cuts have led to some local authorities having to close their local welfare assistance schemes altogether. Food banks in these areas are reporting increased need. Given that the Government are continually presiding over 5 million people living in food poverty, will the Secretary of State commit to protecting future funding and reinstating the local welfare ring fence?

[Greg Clark]

It is important that local authorities should take their local welfare responsibilities seriously. When we have the local government financial settlement, I am sure that the hon. Lady will be pleased to see that that continues to be recognised.