Oral Answers to Questions

Paul Bristow Excerpts

Tuesday 24th March 2020 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

I call Andrew Rosindell. He is not here.

[Paul Bristow (Peterborough) (Con)]

14. What steps he is taking to increase wages for low-paid workers.

[The Economic Secretary to the Treasury (John Glen)]

Low-paid workers will continue to benefit from above-average pay rises, with the national living wage set to reach two thirds of median earnings and to be extended to workers aged 21 and over by 2024, providing economic conditions allow. That is projected to benefit nearly 4 million low-paid workers.

[Paul Bristow]

I thank the Minister for that response and for everything he is doing to protect jobs in Peterborough and across the country. I was proud to stand on our manifesto in December and, in particular, on our commitment to protect the low paid. The Government have taken vital steps in the short term to protect jobs. Will he confirm that this Budget is also providing a £200 tax cut for the typical family in Peterborough?

[John Glen]

Absolutely. I can confirm to my hon. Friend that a typical employee will be about £104 better off next year through the cut in national insurance and the freeze in fuel and alcohol duties, and the abolition of other taxes, such as the tampon tax, will also be of benefit to many of his constituents, for whom he has been fighting hard since he came to this place.