A Tory backbencher claimed the experience of switching to Universal Credit can be “superb” – despite evidence that the benefit is pushing people into poverty.
Maurice Corry, a West of Scotland MSP, based his assertion on the view of anonymous claimants, including one who moved to his constituency area from Inverness.
But support groups said debt has soared in the Highland capital and more people are heading to foodbanks – and the pattern had worsened because of UK welfare reform.
Housing agencies today blamed the benefit for creating “systemic indebtedness and arrears”.
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Corry admitted there have been “some issues” with the introduction of the scheme but writing in a newspaper column he claimed: “Overall it has been a positive change.
"I have spoken with many constituents who have changed over – one in particular who was on it earlier, having moved from Inverness where it was rolled out, and their experience was superb.”
Rent arrears have soared in areas where UC – which replaces six previous welfare payments – is used.
Peter Kelly, director of campaigners The Poverty Alliance, said: “Universal Credit is driving destitution and distress and does not meet its stated purpose of incentivising work.
“To call it superb is absurd. It is a stain on our national conscience.”
