Smoke and mirrors: a political game or real change?

Two weeks ago, Rishi Sunak announced that a general election would take place on 4th July this year. Politicians such as Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer reacted by saying the vote would be a chance to change the country “for the better”. With the cost-of-living crisis as a focal point for the election, many on low incomes are concerned this is just smoke and mirrors, a tactic used by political parties to gain votes but for little to nothing to come to fruition in reality.

Many people are curious about why Rishi Sunak opted for a summer election instead of a later autumn, with some suggesting that a summer election might allow the current inflation figures to be ‘chalked up to be a success’. However, this is misleading as numbers remain significantly higher in comparison to pre-pandemic inflation rates. Sunak commented, “Brighter days are ahead, but only if we stick to the plan to improve economic security and opportunity for everyone." This is a bold statement, but upon closer examination, there is reason to be more doubtful than confident. While inflation may be declining, it doesn't necessarily translate to easier times on the ground.

The past 4 years have been excruciating for families on low incomes, and what is needed now is a promise by whoever rises to power to ensure some long term financial security. Despite political parties assuring voters that they will ‘tackle the cost of living crisis’, a recent poll has found that most voters cannot name a single policy which political parties will adhere to.

The cost of living support payments have ceased, energy prices have only dropped an average of £10 a month, and many parents will be struggling over the coming 6 week school holidays. We need to fix major problems which are continuing to hinder families, and in addition to practical support, we need to ensure the narrative of benefits ‘being a lifestyle choice’ (as referenced by Jeremy Hunt a few weeks ago) and verging on criminalising benefit claimants is eradicated and genuine support offered to people who really need it.

Across the political divide, we need more focus on tackle child poverty. This should start with investing in our social security system. Removing the benefit cap and two-child limit would cost £2.5 billion a year, helping millions of children in poverty. The election is NOT an opportunity to use lower income families as pawns in a political game.