WIREDGOV

Commenting on research published yesterday (Wednesday) by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) – which shows that the gap between the income of many families and the cost of a decent standard of living is still much wider than before the recession – TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said:

“This report reveals the living standards crisis is far from over. Wages have fallen in real terms, with vital benefits reduced and public services scaled back. Too many of those in work cannot afford an acceptable standard of living.

“This research shows why Britain needs a pay rise not tax credit cuts. Unless we see stronger real wage increases and more decent jobs, the recovery will remain out of reach for many working families.”

NOTES TO EDITORS:

• The Minimum Income Standard (MIS) is the income that people need in order to reach a minimum socially acceptable standard of living in the UK, based on what members of the public think. It is calculated by specifying baskets of goods and services required by different types of household in order to meet these needs and to participate in society. MIS is not a measure of poverty, nor represents the poverty line. MIS is about more than survival alone. It covers needs, not wants; necessities, not luxuries: items that the public think people need in order to be part of society. For more information go towww.jrf.org.uk
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