Davey Demands Top Level Action on London Poverty

11.12.01

Edward Davey, Lib Dem MP for Kingston & Surbiton, has highlighted the latest figures on child poverty in London in the House of Commons.

Mr.Davey asked the Chancellor Gordon Brown to admit that 43% of children in London are living in poverty. These are the latest official figures from the Households Below Average Income publication of the Department of Work and Pensions.

The initial analysis of the impact of the Chancellor's working families tax credit shows that families in London receive less benefit than those in other regions. Mr.Davey asked the Chancellor to ensure that that families and children in London will not lose out.

The Chancellor acknowledged the report and said that they would consider Mr.Davey's proposal of an integrated child credit and employment credit for the future. This would lead to a more effective system ensuring that London's poorest children are looked after.

"London has a higher percentage of families living in poverty than any other region," explained Mr.Davey. "The Chancellor needs to recognise this, which is why I raised the issue with him in the House of Commons. I trust he will now act on this and produce comprehensive plans to reduce the appalling levels of child poverty within Greater London."