Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, following changes to universal credit taking effect in April 2016, what assessment his Department has made of the effect on the number of children in poverty of the introduction of universal credit.

The Government is committed to working to eliminate child poverty and improve life chances for children. Work remains the best route out of poverty, and Universal Credit is designed to strengthen incentives for parents to move into and progress in work. Evidence shows claimants move into work significantly faster and earn more than under the current system. In addition, from April 2016 Universal Credit provides for 85% of childcare costs meaning more support for hardworking families.