Liberal Democrats in Bolton have been opposed to the so called ‘Bedroom Tax’ since its introduction.

We accept a need to reduce the colossal benefits expenditure, but many aspects of this legislation are unfair. In particular, we believe that it is totally unfair to penalise people who would like to move to smaller accommodation, but cannot because none is available.                  

Together with many other Liberal Democrats in local government, we have put pressure on our party leadership to try to get it changed. Last year’s party conference supported that, and as a result Nick Clegg set up a review of the effects of the policy. That review has now reported and the Party is now committed to changes – specifically that there should be no reduction in benefit if smaller accommodation is not available, and that disabled tenants should be exempt.

I support that, but believe that a complete review of the policy is needed.

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