A family where both parents earn below the higher rate threshold of £44,000 with a joint income of up to £87,000 will still receive child benefits. A lone-parent family with an income of £44,000 will see their benefit withdrawn, in addition to having some of their income taxed at the higher rate. The same goes for a single-income family where one parent pays tax at the higher rate.
This is unfair.
It particularly penalises working women with modest incomes who, following a family break-up live with young children and therefore have considerable childcare costs.
Put the money where your mouth is.
If the government is intent on getting more parents into work then it shouldn't punish those with a good work ethic. Many parents have to work extra hard just to provide a decent life for their children. It's difficult enough as it is.
The Chancellor is urged to adopt fair and proper means-testing to avoid additional hardship to children following a reduction in Child Tax Credit and Child Care Vouchers and the cancellation of the Child Trust Fund scheme.

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