In Focus
A universal basic income (or UBI) is a periodic cash payment unconditionally delivered to all on an individual basis, without a means-test or work requirement. This article examines arguments for and against introducing a UBI, particularly in light of the economic impacts of the coronavirus outbreak.
Research Briefing
Coronavirus (Covid-19) has had major implications for the UK economy. There have been debates about a number of possible changes to economic policy when the UK enters the recovery phase. These include: possible major reforms to fiscal policy; whether the Government should facilitate the reallocation of jobs and capital away from the hardest hit sectors of the economy; what measures could be taken if the virus exacerbates inequalities in the UK; and whether the recovery is an opportunity to bring about fundamental changes in the economy and society.
Research Briefing
The Government has recently announced plans to support rough sleepers during and after the pandemic, including a specialist taskforce. Various charities have also published recommendations for preventing a spike in homelessness once the ‘lockdown’ ends.
In Focus
This article looks at the Government’s role as ‘insurer of last resort’. Over time, the areas where it takes this role have expanded from basic military, health and welfare provision to include, for example, elements of flood, terrorism and travel risks. Coronavirus has widened this scope further. The article also considers the costs of providing cover, and whether the private sector might cover more of the risks arising from pandemics.
Research Briefing
The UK Government has recognised that it is “imperative” that support is given to people on low incomes to access justice. However successive governments, parliamentary committees and stakeholders have identified barriers to vulnerable people accessing the necessary advice and legal services.
Research Briefing
The Chancellor of the Exchequer delivered the first budget since the 2019 election on 11 March 2020. It contained a series of measures to counteract threats from the coronavirus (COVID-19). The Chancellor also announced changes to taxation policy and an increase in public spending.
Research Briefing
This House of Lords Library Briefing has been prepared in advance of the second reading debate in the House of Lords on the Pension Schemes Bill [HL] on 28 January 2020. The briefing looks at the three principal areas the bill addresses: collective defined contribution pensions, the Pensions Regulator, and pensions dashboards.
Research Briefing
This House of Lords Library Briefing has been published ahead of day 3 of the Lords debate on the December 2019 Queen’s Speech, covering the following subjects: economic affairs, business and public services
Research Briefing
This House of Lords Library Briefing has been prepared in advance of the second reading in the House of Lords of the Pension Schemes Bill [HL] on 30 October 2019.
Research Briefing
This House of Lords Library Briefing has been published ahead of day 5 of the Lords debate on the Queen's Speech, covering the following subjects: health, social care, education, culture, welfare and pensions.
Research Briefing
This House of Lords Library Briefing has been prepared in advance of the debate moved by Baroness Janke (Liberal Democrat) that "this House takes note of the impact of recent benefit changes on vulnerable people" which is due to take place in the House of Lords on 27 June 2019.
Research Briefing
This House of Lords Library Briefing has been prepared in advance of the debate on of the case for the provision of free public transport and TV licences for older persons as a means to alleviate loneliness and isolation and the broader need to maintain well-funded public services to support care for the elderly which is due to take place in the House of Lords on 13 June 2019.
Research Briefing
This House of Lords Library Briefing has been prepared in advance of the debate due to take place on 13 June 2019. Lord Dubs (Labour) is to move that “this House takes note of inequalities in income, wealth and living standards in the UK since the 2008 financial crisis; and further takes note of the Institute for Fiscal Studies Deaton Review of inequalities in the 21st century in the UK and the final report of the UN special rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights”.
Research Briefing
This Lords Library briefing provides information on the upcoming debate on 7 March 2019 to mark International Women’s Day.
Research Briefing
This House of Lords Library Briefing has been prepared in advance of the debate due to take place on 13 November 2018 in the House of Lords on the motion moved by Lord Bates (Conservative) that “this House takes note of the economy in the light of the Budget Statement
Total results (page 6 of 8)