Margaret Greenwood MP, Labour’s Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary, responding to reports that people are facing difficulties accessing Universal Credit, said:

“Unprecedented numbers of working people are having to access the social security system for the very first time because of the health emergency. Not only is there chaos as they seek to secure support, they will be shocked at the low level of payments.

“It is vital that people get the support that they need in the face of this crisis.

“The government should make advance payments for Universal Credit automatic and make them a grant not a loan.

“They should also support the self-employed by extending eligibility for the Jobs Retention Scheme to them.

“The DWP has cut tens of thousands of posts since 2010. The government should look to calling people back into employment during this crisis to make sure people can get the support they need in good time.”