Leading Lib Dems Revolt over Housing Benefit Cuts

Ten leading Liberal Democrat group leaders from across London have taken fears about the Government’s proposed housing benefit changes to the ministerial top table.  At the Liberal Democrat conference last week in Liverpool, the group were represented at a top-level meeting with Steve Webb, minister at the Department for Work & Pensions, which is leading on the benefit reforms.  Islington Liberal Democrat Councillor Terry Stacy voiced deep concerns among London councils about the particular impact the proposed changes would have on London tenants because of the higher housing costs.  The risk of greater homelessness and longer council housing waiting lists was also highlighted.  Stacy said “We all accept that the benefit bill must come down.  But London is different and needs to be treated differently.”  Read more on 24dash.