A COUNCIL is calling on the government to launch a pilot of the Universal Basic Income in the district.

Lewes District Council passed a resolution in support of the scheme, which is a payment to cover the basic cost of living and given to all citizens, regardless of employment status, wealth or marital status.

The council will send letters to the Prime Minister, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and the Chancellor of the Exchequer, as well as shadow ministers, to outline reasons why a pilot scheme should be held in Lewes.

Councillor Imogen Makepeace said: “We need a new approach as the current benefit system is failing citizens, with Universal Credit causing hardship to many residents in Lewes district.

“This is against a backdrop of increasing numbers of people at risk of facing poverty due to the coronavirus crisis.

“A trial of Universal Basic Income is needed in the district as it has the potential to help address key challenges such as inequality, poverty, precarious employment and loss of community here.

“We are ideally placed for a pilot because of our district’s economic and geographic diversity. It is important that the success of such a pilot would need to be measured by health and wellbeing and community benefit alongside economic and employment impacts.”

Leader of the council James MacCleary said: “This is an innovative approach that could be genuinely transformative in empowering individuals and I am happy to write to the government requesting this pilot. It in now way impacts on council finances.”