Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Louie French and Mims Davies

Monday 18th December 2023 Commons Chamber

[Mims Davies]

I thank the hon. Lady for lobbying for my elevation and rank in this House. I am delighted to respond by making it clear to the lobby and to those we are talking about and looking after that that makes no material difference to their day-to-day life. There is no difference in my convening power or in the day-to-day work. Our next cross-Government ministerial disability champions meeting is in the new year. Let me be clear: this is not about rank. We are sent to this House to serve people and to engage and listen, and I will do that whatever the title or rank.

[Mr Louie French (Old Bexley and Sidcup) (Con)]

3. What steps his Department is taking to support the long-term unemployed into work.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Louie French and Mims Davies

Monday 6th March 2023 Commons Chamber

[Mims Davies]

I thank the hon. Lady for her question. I think we have some amazing childcare out there and some brilliant opportunities for lone parents, as I have described. It is important to let people know that, on universal credit, they can claim back 85%. It is better than legacy benefits, and they should please look at the benefits calculator on gov.uk and use the flexible support fund. We should also recognise that it is not right for everybody to go straight back to work—this needs to be individualised—and that we should support the lone parent and make sure they can get the skills and the opportunity to always be better off in work.

[Mr Louie French (Old Bexley and Sidcup) (Con)]

7. What steps his Department is taking to support pensioners with increases in living costs.