Recently I spoke in the Department for Work and Pensions Estimates Day Debate, and raised the case of my constituent Antony. Anthony has special educational needs and has lost the financial support he would have been entitled to under the old benefits system due to a gap in legislation created by the move onto Universal Credit.

These changes mean Anthony is now having to complete his final year of A-levels without the financial help he needs. At the end of the debate, the Minister agreed to meet with me to discuss this matter directly.

On Wednesday Antony’s dad Iain and I attended that meeting with DWP Minister Justin Tomlinson to raise our concerns and seek a solution for Anthony and others that are sure to be affected by this gap in legislation.

The Minister agreed that this situation should not be allowed to continue, he has reinstated Antony’s financial support and is now looking to change the legislation so no one will find themselves in a similar situation. I will now stay in touch with the Minister to ensure he keeps the promises made in the meeting.