Welfare Reform Bill

I understand the Minister’s response. It really reiterated what he said in Committee: this is an issue of affordability, not necessarily one of principle. On that basis I do not see why he could not accept the amendment—it would signal the Government’s intent on this—but given the hour I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment 8 withdrawn. Amendment 9 not moved. Amendment 10 not moved. Clause 9 : Standard allowance Clause 9 : Standard allowance Amendment 11 not moved. Clause 10 : Responsibility for children and young persons Clause 10 : Responsibility for children and young persons Amendment 11A not moved.