19.03.2018
The ongoing problems with the roll out of Universal Credit and the devolution of welfare powers to Scotland will be raised by the Scottish Parliament’s Social Security Committee when it hears from Rt Hon Esther McVey, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions.
The Committee’s meeting on Monday 16 April, which will see Esther McVey’s first appearance at Holyrood, takes place against a backdrop of the Scottish Parliament considering the Social Security Bill. A Bill which will see the devolution of 11 benefits and expenditure of £2.9 billion a year.
Committee Convener, Clare Adamson MSP said:
“This meeting comes at a vital time for social security in Scotland. Not only is the Parliament about finalise the Social Security Bill but there are clearly on going issues around the roll out of Universal Credit which need resolved and resolved quickly. That is why our Committee is pleased that the Secretary of State will be appearing before us.
“We will use this meeting to talk about these issues and ensure that any handover of powers happens smoothly. But more importantly, we will use this to ensure that none of us lose sight of those most affected by these changes and that everyone can have confidence in the social security system.”
The meeting will take place on Monday 16 April and more information, including timing, will be issued nearer the time.
The Committee invited the previous Secretary, the Rt Hon David Gauke MP State to attend a meeting in late 2017. Following the reshuffle of the UK Cabinet, this invitation was extended to his Esther McVey MP as his successor.
The then Secretary of State, Rt Hon Damian Green MP appeared before the Committee on 3 November 2016. This was the first time that a UK Minister had appeared before the Committee. More information about that meeting can be found here.