The Thirsk and Malton MP has raised concerns about the payments system for universal credit.
Kevin Hollinrake says his constituents are being paid in four weekly cycles meaning they could be paid twice in the same month and appear to be earning more than they actually did.
Following on from an earlier letter to the Works and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd MP, Mr Hollinrake sought confirmation to ensure the right level of support at the right time was given.
In response, Mrs Rudd said: “We do need to ensure that universal credit delivers on what it intends to do, which is to give real time financial support based on an actual month’s assessment.
“We have recently upgraded the guidance for universal credit so that work coaches can adjust to where the situation he (Mr Hollinrake) describes occurs, appropriate adjustments are made.”
This follows the announcement from the Secretary of State that the next stage of the roll-out hah been postponed along with a parliamentary vote on the issues being raised.
MPs were to vote on whether to move three million benefit claimants onto universal credit in the next few weeks.
But this vote has been delayed and Parliament will instead be asked to vote on transferring just 10,000 people to the new benefits system, giving the Secretary of State an opportunity to pilot the scheme first.
In response Mr Hollinrake said: “I am delighted that Mrs Rudd has listened to concerns and I think this an example of good governance.”
The MP said he still supported universal credit.
“It is a modern benefit based on the sound principals that work should always pay and those who need support receive it.
“It is also fair to taxpayers, that is why it is equally important to get it right.”
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