Budget Resolutions and Economic Situation

Tom Pursglove Excerpts

Thursday 9th July 2015 Commons Chamber

[Graham Evans (Weaver Vale) (Con)]

rose—

[Tom Pursglove (Corby) (Con)]

rose—

[Alan Mak]

rose—

--- Later in debate ---

[Mr Duncan Smith]

I just do not agree with that, I am afraid. We have set out to protect disability living allowance and PIPs so that those in the greatest need are protected and their benefits continue to rise. As I said, we will help those in work and capable of work through the living wage and childcare support. We will get people back to work and doing more hours. I do not agree, therefore, with what the hon. Lady says; we have gone out of our way to protect those in the greatest need.

[Tom Pursglove]

In my constituency, people would say that the £20,000 benefits cap is not only morally right but much more in line with circumstances in our area. I tried to intervene on the shadow Chancellor to find out if he agreed with that. Has the Secretary of State had any such indication?

[Mr Duncan Smith]

We have presented today a package for working people that will incentivise those who can work to go back to work and work the hours they need to improve themselves and their families. My hon. Friend is absolutely correct. This is exactly the drive the Government are making.