16 May 2005 - Blunkett pledges to tackle child poverty
David Blunkett, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions today pledged to tackle child poverty at a photocall organised by the End Child Poverty Coalition.
Mr Blunkett assured the attendees that he too – like his predecessor - was 100% committed to shouting from the roof tops about the Government’s achievements in reducing child poverty and equally, its commitment to tackle it.
Speaking today he said:
“Since 1997 we have lifted 600,000 children out of poverty and that is an achievement we can be proud of. And by October this year after inflation, families with children will be on average £1,400 a year better off, while the poorest fifth will be on average £3,200 per year better off.
“We are the first Government in this country ever to have set ourselves a target to tackle child poverty.
“Building on the work already started, I will be working with the Chancellor to continue to tackle immediate deprivation, with a long term goal of helping people to lift themselves out of poverty, rather than just helping people cope with it.
“Across Government we have an integrated approach to this challenge, with policies such as Sure Start, Child Trust Fund, Tax Credits and good education playing their part in delivering increased opportunity for young people.
“Our target to eradicate child poverty by 2020 is ambitious and there is no denying that there is much more to be done. That’s why I wanted to get out and discuss this important issue in my first few weeks in the job.”
Notes for editors
- The photocall took place at Victoria Tower Gardens, Westminster, London.
- Since 1997 the Government has lifted 600,000 children out of relative low income before housing costs and 700,000 children out of poverty on an after housing costs basis.
- Tax credits are now benefiting 5.9 million families and around 10 million children.
- End Child Poverty was set up in April 2001 by a number of leading charities working with children and families. Its membership has expanded to include a broad range of organisations from the public, private and voluntary sectors as well as trades unions and faith groups.
- For further details please contact Fiona Ludlow in the Press Office on 020 7238 0782.
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