We're calling on candidates in Hartlepool to back UBI pilots

Image credit - Alex Liivet - CC0

Image credit - Alex Liivet - CC0

The UBI Lab Network and Basic Income UK are working together on the #PledgeForUBI.

We're asking candidates in the Hartlepool by-election to back Universal Basic Income pilots.

If you're a candidate, you can sign the pledge by emailing us at pledge@ubilabnetwork.org

If you're a supporter of a political party, ask your candidate to sign using the hashtag #PledgeForUBI. 

 

The Pledge

The pandemic has shown our welfare system is not fit for purpose. Millions of people have fallen through the gaps in the government's support packages, and thousands of families across the UK are facing poverty and hardship for the first time.

After decades of underinvestment, cities in the north are falling even further behind the south. We can't go on like this.

We urgently need to strengthen our welfare system. The creation of a Universal Basic Income (UBI) – a regular and unconditional cash payment to every person in the UK – could be a big part of the solution.

A UBI would provide financial security for all, giving everyone the resources they need to fulfil their potential. It would transform our social security system into one fit for the 21st century, one that would allow everyone to develop and contribute their talents.

A UBI would build resilience into our society and our communities. It would provide the investment we need to rebuild our towns and cities. It would provide protection for everyone.

Mayors around the world, from Catalonia to California, are trying out UBI. Many have found that a guaranteed income allows their citizens to live happier, healthier, and more secure lives. Over 30 councils across the UK, plus the Welsh Senedd, have passed motions calling for a pilot in their area, while the Scottish Government has funded a world-leading feasibility study into what pilots could look like.

The current welfare system is failing communities in every part of the UK. It's time to try something new. As MP for Hartlepool, I will:

  • Support calls to pilot Universal Basic Income in the UK, including Hartlepool

  • Lobby Government for the devolved powers needed for cities to pilot UBI

  • Work with politicians across the UK to call for a new economic settlement, which includes trialling a Universal Basic Income

 

Candidates who have signed so far:

More about the pledges

 

#PledgeForUBI

We're running a series of campaigns calling on candidates in May's elections to pledge their support for Universal Basic Income pilots.

As well as asking candidates to #PledgeForUBI, we want you to add your name in support. The campaigns are aimed at:

 
Jonny Douglas