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Written question asked by Zarah Sultana (Your Party) on Monday, 16 March 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 18 March 2026. It was answered by Diana Johnson (Labour) on Tuesday, 24 March 2026 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Universal Credit: Disqualification

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what consideration he has given to lowering the sanctions daily rate reduction rate to less than 100% of the Universal Credit standard allowance.

Answer

Whilst a sanction typically results in a 100% reduction of the Universal Credit standard allowance rate for each day the sanction is in place (except for couples where this is halved), lower reduction rates apply in certain scenarios where it is reasonable due to the claimant’s circumstances, such as if they are aged 16 or 17. If a claimant is entitled to additional elements on top of their standard allowance such as for children or housing costs, they will continue to be paid.

To keep the conditionality and sanctions system clear, fair and effective in promoting positive behaviours, we keep our policies and procedures under continuous review.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
120887
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Disqualification Universal credit
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk