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

Cleaner

Durham County Council
£24,796 (pro rata)
Cleaner Grade 1- £24,796  (pro rata) Permanent- Part time, 12.5 hours per week Currently 3.30pm to 6pm Monday to Friday (subject to change depending o Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Project Manager

Durham County Council
Grade 12 - £44,075 - £48,226
Can you make a real difference to the residents of County Durham by helping shape services across Durham? We are looking for a project manager with e Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Project Facilitator

Durham County Council
Grade 5 - £26,403 - £25,598
Are you a highly organised and proactive facilitator and administrator, keen to play a key role in supporting a new PMO team, ensuring the smooth coor Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council

School Crossing Patrol

Durham County Council
Grade 1 £4,106 (approx.) £12.85 per hour
Join our School Crossing Patrol Service! Are you punctual and reliable? Do you have good communication skills and a strong sense of community spirit? Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Home Support Worker

Durham County Council
Grade 5 - £26,403 - £28,598 pro rata to hours worked (hourly rate - £13.68 rising to £14.82 per hour)
Home Support Worker - Grade 5 3x 27 Hour Permanent Posts We are excited to be expanding our team of Home Support Workers within Hawthorn House, a dua Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner