Brighton MP Calls for Respectful Treatment of Benefits Claimants
Brighton MP Siân Berry urges the government to view benefits claimants as citizens, not suspects, during a key parliamentary debate.
Brighton, UK, Benefits, Citizenship, Public Authorities
Brighton: The Green MP for Brighton Pavilion, Siân Berry, is speaking out. She wants the government to treat benefits claimants as citizens, not suspects.
Berry made her comments during a debate on the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Bill. She expressed concerns about the bill’s potential to invade people’s privacy.
She shared that many constituents are worried about the bill’s sweeping powers. These powers could unfairly label them as suspects instead of citizens.
Berry mentioned various groups affected, like pensioners needing pension credit and disabled individuals relying on employment support. She also highlighted family carers and those struggling with low wages.
“These are citizens, not suspects,” she emphasized. The government won a vote on the bill, which will be reviewed by a committee of MPs soon.
For more details about the bill, click here.