Column: Guildford’s MP Writes – ‘Welfare Benefits Are a Lifeline For Some’

Published on: 9 Apr, 2025
Updated on: 9 Apr, 2025

Zoe Franklin, Guildford’s Lib Dem MP

Guildford MP Zoe Franklin’s monthly roundup

Spring has finally sprung, and I hope you’ve been able to enjoy Guildford’s glorious weather.

In Westminster, the Chancellor’s spring statement was her opportunity to make a positive change to us all. She did not deliver.

Household bills are going up over the next few days, we’ll all be paying more for our gas and electricity, and our water bills are increasing as we’re all hit with the cost of bailing out failing Thames Water.

The Labour government promised that those with the broadest shoulders should bear the heavier burden. Instead, the Chancellor pressed ahead with cuts to disability welfare payments, placing a burden on people who can least afford it. The letters and emails I receive every day from people in Guildford and our villages are heart-breaking.

For these people, PIP and other welfare benefits are not a “bonus” – they are a vital lifeline that enables them to live as independent and dignified a life as possible, and to contribute to our community.

One constituent told me:

“As a disabled person, PIP has enabled me to work in crucial roles, such as supporting students and providing critical assistance in Safe Havens for those experiencing mental health crises. Without PIP, the additional costs I face – including accommodation, transport, food, and managing my health conditions – would make it impossible for me to continue these roles. PIP is not just financial support; it’s a lifeline that ensures disabled individuals like myself remain active, engaged, and contributing members of society.”

Zoe Franklin welcomes Greg Grimshaw, CEO of PE, to Guildford

Guildford’s small and medium sized businesses are the engine that can drive growth and help it thrive.

I was delighted to welcome leading software engineering firm PE Ltd to Guildford.

With its global client base, the company has chosen Guildford for its relocation from Edinburgh. It chose “vibrant” Guildford for our “excellent infrastructure and skilled talent pool.”

New Space Enterprise Lab

I was fascinated to visit the new Space Enterprise Lab at Surrey Research Park. As the space industry continues to grow, this new cutting-edge facility will provide local companies with the support they need to access national and international opportunities.

It’s an incredible asset for our community which will attract forward-thinking businesses, create high-skilled jobs, and establish Guildford as a leader in the UK and global space sectors – all while securing the thriving future for our constituency that I’ve long advocated for!

An extra burden on businesses

Many established Guildford businesses have told me the increase in employers’ national insurance they’re about to face is deeply worrying. Businesses which have managed to weather 14 years of Conservative economic vandalism need support to thrive. Many, including those in the care sector and GP surgeries, have told me how this extra burden could be the difference between surviving and going under. I will continue to fight for what is best for the people and business who are the heart of Guildford.

The Liberal Democrats believe the big banks, social media and gambling companies should pay their fair share.

Late debate

I enjoyed a lively discussion with Conservative MP Andrew Rosindell and Labour MP Danny Beales on ITV London’s The Late Debate. On the agenda was defence spending, disability welfare cuts and the changes the pandemic brought to the way we work.

You can watch the full debate here.

And finally

You can keep up to date with my work on my web page, where you can also sign up for regular newsletters: https://www.zoefranklin.co.uk/news

If you need my help, I am here for you. You can reach me at zoe.franklin.mp@parliament.uk or on social media @ZoeFranklinLD.