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December 2005

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2 December 2005

MP Urges More Investigations As Tax Credits Complaint Upheld By Ombudsman

  Tony Wright MP is urging those families who have been badly affected by problems with tax credits overpayments to take their case to the Ombudsman, following another constituent’s success this week in having his complaint upheld.

Although child and working tax credits are bringing much-needed financial support to local families, many people were overpaid because of administrative errors and have been asked to repay, which has caused distress and hardship. The Chase MP has received many complaints about this and has supported a number of constituents in taking their case to the Ombudsman. So far, investigations have found in favour of complainants and against the Inland Revenue.

Tony Wright said,

“There is no doubt that the tax credit system is helping many working families with modest incomes but, equally, there is no doubt that the Inland Revenue has failed many families in failing to calculate entitlements accurately.

The stories people tell me are too often the same. In spite of querying the amounts paid, the Inland Revenue assured them that all was well. Then they received demands for repayments, often running into thousands of pounds, which they simply did not have. Not only have people had to bear the demand for repayment, they have also lost out on their current payments.

The problems with the system are now well-documented and have at last been recognized. My concern though is that people have not been properly compensated and many more may have been put off claiming what is rightly theirs.

I would therefore urge constituents who still feel that they have been badly treated to follow through their complaints with the Ombudsman.”

2 December 2005

MP Pays Tribute to Carers on “Carers’ Rights Day”

Tony Wright MP has marked Carers’ Rights Day (2 December 2005) by paying tribute to all those in his constituency who care for a sick or disabled relative or friend.

He said:

“Carers are unsung heroes. They provide essential support for people in need and save the country something like £57 billion every year. I pay tribute to them – young and old – for the sterling work they do.

Carers’ Rights Day provides a reminder too that carers also need support. Nearly two and a half million people become carers each year and many of them are unaware of the benefits and services available to them.

Carers can check that they are receiving the support they are entitled to by calling the Carers UK helpline for a free guide - 0808 808 7777 – or by visiting www.carersuk.org