Welfare Assistance Schemes

Lord McKenzie of Luton Excerpts

Tuesday 10th February 2015 Lords Chamber

[Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon]

In response to the right reverend Prelate, as I said earlier, I am of course aware of the debate and look forward to that later today. It is for local authorities to set their priorities, and we have been responding directly to local authorities; it was part of the consultation after the initial settlement. I myself met with several local authorities. The issue of welfare provision was high on their list, and the Government have responded accordingly.

[Lord McKenzie of Luton (Lab)]

Are the Government proud of the fact that they had to be dragged through the courts on behalf of some of the most disadvantaged people in our country before they reconsidered their decision to cease funding for local welfare provision?