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

Solicitor/ Barrister / Chartered Legal Executive Commercial & Contracts (x2)

Warwickshire County Council
£50,856 to £57,083 per annum
Warwickshire Legal Services (WLS) are looking for two qualified lawyers to join their award-winning, motivated, and nationally recognised legal team. Warwick
Recuriter: Warwickshire County Council

Head of Finance and Deputy s151 Officer

Conwy County Borough Council
£77,153 - £88,545
We are looking for an experienced and strategic financial leader who can operate confidently in a complex, political and fast-changing environment. Colwyn Bay, Conwy
Recuriter: Conwy County Borough Council

ICT Engineer Digital Squad

Durham County Council
£35,412 to £39,152 p.a. (Pay Award Pending)
An exciting opportunity has arisen within the Microsoft 365 Team for an ICT Engineer (Microsoft 365). This role will support Durham County Council's B Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Storekeeper Driver

Durham County Council
£26,403 - £28,598
An opportunity has come up in Highways Services for a Storekeeper/Driver.  They will assist the Stores Supervisor in delivering a customer focussed St Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Care Support

Durham County Council
Grade 4 £25,583 - £26,824 (pay award pending)
We're recruiting to a permanent role within our Pathways Service, which delivers day services to adults with complex needs, Monday to Friday. There i Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner