Saving Gateway Accounts Bill

I rise briefly to support the noble Lord, Lord Newby. The Government would do better to focus attention on those who are in the benefits or tax credits system in the long term and whose eligibility ought to continue over a longer period of time. Their circumstances in terms of savings may change compared with the current position, which is making sure that people who will not rely on tax credits or benefits over the long term are given the maximum opportunity to take part in the savings gateway scheme. The Government’s emphasis ought to be the other way around, focusing on long-term tax credit and benefits recipients rather than those who are in the system for only a short period.