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Welfare Reform Bill

The hon. Gentleman raises an important point. In my previous incarnations, when I have asked Departments about sanctions, they have said, ““You don't have to worry—we apply the sanction to the adult bit of the benefit only,”” as if the household pot is ring-fenced. It is as if they assume that the children's bit will go on being spent at the same rate, and the adult will not touch it. That is nonsense. Not only will the benefit claimant suffer, but so will the children. Our concern is not about the idea that we should encourage and stand alongside people, engage with them early and give them quality choices that have all too often been lacking. Our fundamental point of concern is the heavy-handed, stick approach, particularly when it is taken early in the process.