Towards a Fairer Society

WC
18 Mar 2023

Everyone deserves a fair chance to succeed in life and access to the same opportunities.

Sadly that is not the case in the UK.

Too many people are trapped on low or unstable incomes. Working hard, playing by the rules, but still struggling to pay their bills.

The number of people in deep poverty, with income below 50% of the median after housing costs, is rising.

The blame lies squarely with this Conservative Government.

The Conservatives not only froze benefit payments for three years, but just when the UK was hit with the worst cost-of-living crisis in decades, they tore the £20 Universal Credit increase away.

When they should be stepping-up, they step back.

Liberal Democrats want to create a fairer society. Every person should have the resources and opportunities to lead a fulfilling life.

Our new policy, passed by members today seeks to:

  • End deep poverty: Introducing a Guaranteed Basic Income by increasing Universal Credit to the level required to end deep poverty within the decade and removing sanctions.
  • Devolving spending and power to local and regional government to address regional inequalities.
  • Improve access to skills, training and advice by replacing the flawed support received through JobCentres and giving people the opportunity to learn and train throughout life.
  • Propose a new Workers Charter, with modern protections for a modern workforce including fairer flexible working rights.

Read the motion here

Life’s been tough for lots of people over the past few years. While the British people play by the rules, they are being let down by this Conservative Government. Now more than ever, it's time for a fair deal where everyone has the chance to succeed in life.