This morning I chaired a meeting of the NI Affairs Select Committee. We heard from victims and families of the Harrods bombing as we continue to look at the issue of Libya-IRA compensation for victims.
In the afternoon I had the honour of hosting a reception for The Butterfly Garden, based in my constituency, which is a project for people of all ages dealing with disablement of any kind. The event was organised by Chris Evans, the founder of The Butterfly Garden. As a result of his commitment and work he has created opportunities for those dealing with disablement to engage in gardening, cooking, theatre and arts, and above all a space to socialise and enjoy themselves. The Butterfly Garden also has a team of excellent volunteers and it was wonderful to meet everyone involved. It was a very enjoyable afternoon. (http://www.thebutterflygarden.org/).
I also attended an event hosted by Breast Cancer Now to hear more about what issues they see as their main focus as the UK's largest breast cancer charity. (http://breastcancernow.org/).
I have received a number of emails expressing concerns about the proposed changes to tax credits. I have taken these concerns on board and held a meeting with the relevant Treasury Minister to discuss them. I am assured that the main concern, that being the transition period between changes made now and the time when the increase in the minimum/living wage fully kicks in, will be addressed by the Chancellor of the Exchequer on 25th November.
The changes are being made to end the situation whereby taxpayers – many of whom are not highly paid – subsidise poorly-paying employers to the tune of £30 billion. In future, employers will be forced to pay a living wage to everyone they employ, and the government is increasing the value of that living wage. In addition, the government is raising the threshold at which people start to pay income tax; reducing council house rents; doubling the amount of free child care; and is building an economy in which many more jobs are available to people.