Davey: Carer’s Allowance review mustn’t be excuse for inaction now

EMBARGO: Immediate Release

Responding to the Terms of Reference for the independent review of Carer’s Allowance overpayments, published today by the Department for Work and Pensions, Leader of the Liberal Democrats Ed Davey said:

“I’m glad that campaigners were able to secure this review into the appalling scandal that has seen so many family carers pursued for repayments of Carer’s Allowance, but it cannot be an excuse for Ministers to sit on their hands until the review finishes next summer.

“This scandal has already dragged on for years under the last Conservative Government, and there are things that Ministers should be doing today to put things right. At the very least, they should immediately halt repayment demands and threats of prosecution until the review has completed and the system has been reformed.

“It is also disappointing that the review will not look at the need for bigger reforms to support unpaid carers properly. Liberal Democrats will continue to stand up for our wonderful carers and fight for the support they deserve.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

The Terms of Reference for the independent review of Carer’s Allowance overpayments are available here.