Emma today raised constituents’ concerns over the so called ‘bedroom tax’ which is being introduced by the Government. In particular, Emma raised the severity of the issue for constituents living with disabilities.

The policy, which will come into force in April 2013, will see social housing tenants docked 14 per cent of their benefit if they have one spare room and 25 per cent if they have two spare rooms. For people with disabilities who have specially adapted housing and happen to have a spare bedroom, this policy is of deep concern. There is no alternative adapted accommodation available to them.

Speaking during work and pensions question time, Emma Reynolds MP said:

“Many of my constituents have raised concerns over the introduction of the ‘bedroom tax’, especially given the lack of affordable, alternative housing in Wolverhampton.

Can the Secretary of State reassure families or individuals in my constituency who have disabilities and live in adapted housing, many of whom have waited years to secure such housing, that they will not face a reduction in housing benefit as a result of this new tax?”

Speaking after her question, Emma Reynolds MP said,

“The Government needs to rethink this policy fast. In recent months we’ve seen U-turns on pasties, grannies, charities and caravans and it is time we saw one on the bedroom tax. It is disgraceful that the Government should target people living with disabilities in this way.”