Households below average income

That this House is angered by the latest households below average income figures which reveal that 4.5 million children are living in relative poverty after housing costs, which amounts to nine children in every classroom and a record high; understands there has been an increase in child poverty of 200,000 extra children since last year, estimated to be over 300 extra children in the average constituency that are now dealing with the adverse effects of poverty blotting and limiting their life chances; recognises that 48% of children in poverty live in a household where the youngest child is aged between 0-4, 72% of children in poverty live in a household where someone is in work, 43% of all children in lone-parent households live in poverty, 49% of children in poverty live in a household with 3 or more children, affected by the sibling tax (two-child benefit limit) and 44% of children in poverty live in a household where someone is disabled; believes this situation is a source of national shame; further understands that analysis from Save the Children shows that child poverty numbers will approach 5 million by the end of the Parliament unless urgent action is taken; expresses concern at the negative impact the latest welfare reforms may have on families with disabled members; and calls on the Government to strengthen its commitment to tackling the root causes of poverty and provide a social security system that supports all those in need throughout their lifetime.