Former Work and Pensions secretary demands debt help

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2006

Former Work and Pensions secretary David Blunkett has called on the government to provide more advice and help for those in debt.

In his first policy proposal since he was sacked, David Blunkett has called on the government to help those trapped in the UK's ever-worsening debt swamp.

Disparities between the wealthy and those stuck in poverty must also be addressed by the government, the former work and pensions secretary stated.

Mr Blunkett set out his proposals in a pamphlet, called A ladder out of poverty: From state dependence to self reliance, which was published by the Resolution Foundation, in which he stated that tackling debt must be based on "rights and responsibilities".

He said: "A progressive agenda for social inclusion and greater equality must assist people in permanently lifting themselves out of dependency and reliance on costly credit

"This pamphlet seeks to initiate and contribute to discussions about a modern anti-poverty programme which has an emphasis on rights and responsibilities at its heart. We must assist people in building their own assets to truly narrow the divide between the haves and have-nots."

The government is soon to set out its 10-year strategy on how it will ensure consumers are better informed about managing their finances.

Britain's overall level of personal debt increases by £1 million every four minutes, according to debt charity credit action.