Attack on the poorest (From York Press)

Attack on the poorest

8:39am Monday 24th September 2012 in Letters By Reader's letter

IN A week where there seems to be a consensus that a benefit freeze will be implemented for the next two or three years, it seems as though many have missed that the reality will be a cut in disposable income, with the localization of council tax benefit and the social fund.

A cursory glance at the consultations from many local authorities show projected across the board cuts of 15 per cent to 30 per cent in council tax benefit, resulting in a single person in a Band A property needing to find an extra £4 per week; the equivalent of a five per cent cut for a single person in receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance.

The localisation of council tax benefit and the social fund (when local authorities will be provided with a sum equivalent to 2005 levels and not ring-fenced) is one of the most skilful yet deceitful pieces of legislation brought in by the coalition, as no doubt it will be the local authorities who carry the can for what will be yet another vicious attack on the poorest and lowest paid in society.

RKM Bridge, Holgate Road, York.