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Universal basic income could be paid to ALL Brits to help country get through coronavirus cash crisis

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BRITS struggling due to the financial impact of coronavirus could be given a helping hand if the idea of a universal basic income gets the go-ahead.

Prime Minster Boris Johnson said he is “committed” to meet with MPs to discuss the concept as people lose their jobs and struggle to pay their bills because of coronavirus outbreak.

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 The government has committed to discuss the idea of a Universal Basic Income
The government has committed to discuss the idea of a Universal Basic IncomeCredit: Alamy

Think tank the Joseph Rowntree Foundation explains that a Universal Basic Income is an unconditional, regular payment made to every person, although payments can differ due to age or other reasons.

It’s different to the likes of Universal Credit, which is a benefit only available to those who are typically out of work or on a low income.

Finland, for example, trialled the idea a few years ago, reportedly paying 2,000 unemployed people 560 euros a month (£490 at the time).

If successful, it was due to roll out to all citizens, not just the unemployed, but Sky News reports that the scheme was scrapped after the trial.

The idea has been mooted for the past few years here in the UK but pressure for it has stepped up due to the “unprecedented” impact of coronavirus.

In this week’s Prime Minister’s Questions, Ian Blackford, the Scottish National Party MP for Ross, Skye and Lochaber, said members from six political parties have expressed support for a temporary universal basic income for everyone.

Mr Blackford added: “Thousands of people are already losing their jobs. They need reassurance and support. They need an income guarantee.

“People are worried about their bills, they are worried about keeping a roof over their head. An emergency universal income scheme would do just that.

“Will the Prime Minister at least commit to meeting us to discuss this.”

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In response, Mr Johnson said: “Yes indeed, I can make that commitment.

“I think it’s very important as we go forward to reach a consensus on how to support people as we go throughout this crisis.”

Labour’s Kevin Brennan also pressed the Prime Minister calling for a temporary basic income to “get money into the pockets of the workers”.

In response Mr Johnson said: “Of course, that is one of the ideas that will certainly be considered”.

But Mr Johnson did caution that his government has already put together a £350billion package of measures to help those struggling.

Businesses in the hospitality sector, for example, have had business rates axed for a year, while banks have been told to offer three-month mortgage holidays.

Mr Johnson added: “Do not underestimate the value to people of the measures we have already announced that will support business and keep jobs going.

“But he [Mr Blackford] is quite right, it it also important that throughout this crisis we take steps to support workers, and the suggestion that he makes is one of many.”

No 10 refused to confirm or deny whether a universal basic income would be introduced when questioned by The Sun.



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