Laura Sharman 22 April 2020

Politicians calls for universal basic income to jumpstart economy

The Government has been urged to make Universal Basic Income a crucial part of its coronavirus recovery plan by 110 MPs and Peers.

In a letter published in the Financial Times, the cross-party MPs and Peers argue that Universal Credit is struggling to cope with current demands and Job Retention Schemes are unsustainable on the long term.

The group is calling for Universal Basic Income to ensure nobody falls through the cracks in this time of crisis.

Ian Blackford, the SNP’s Westminster leader, said: 'A Universal Basic Income is the simplest way to ensure no one is left behind during the coronavirus crisis. There are serious gaps in the current UK system and millions of people are not getting the financial support they need.

'A guaranteed minimum income for everyone would fix these gaps and put cash in people's pockets, as well as help ensure a strong economic recovery and a fairer society.'

Michael Pugh, director of Basic Income Conversation said: 'The Government has yet to announce a lifeline for our medium to long term recovery. But we know the Government’s current wage subsidies won’t be viable forever.

'UBI is simple and straightforward. Everyone benefits. Our economy benefits. The people who need the support most get it. It’s the quickest and most effective way to give everyone in Britain the security to rebuild our lives and jumpstart our economy.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Trees and Landscape Officer

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
£37602 - £45564
Job Title Trees and Landscape ... London
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth

Mental Health Co-ordinator, Kinship, post-order support team

Essex County Council
£24102.00 - £28994.00 per annum
Mental Health Co-ordinator, Kinship, post-order support teamPermanent, Part Time, 18.5 Hours Per Week£24,102 to £28,994 Per Annum Pro-RataLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

ICT Business Support & Development Officer

Essex County Council
£31284.00 - £35721.00 per annum
Essex County Council (ECC) are delighted to be supporting Braintree Council to recruit an ICT Business Support & Development Officer on a full-time b England, Essex, Braintree
Recuriter: Essex County Council

ICT Project Officer - Braintree District Council

Essex County Council
£31284.0000 - £35721.0000 per annum
Essex County Council (ECC) are delighted to be supporting Braintree Council to recruit an ICT Project Manager on a full-time basis.Please click here England, Essex, Braintree
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Corporate Director - Planning

Dorset Council
£97,966 - £126,181
Do you share our ambition for Dorset? Dorset
Recuriter: Dorset Council
Linkedin Banner