Lord Carey criticises tax credit cuts

BBC News – Lord Carey criticises government’s tax credit cuts

Former Archbishop of Canterbury George Carey has attacked the government's plans to cut tax credits, saying hard-working families will be hit. Lord Carey, who backed the benefit cap when Anglican bishops opposed it, urged the government to rethink the cuts in a statement to the Sun and Mirror. 

Another former Archbishop, Rowan Williams, has also signalled his opposition to the move. 

But ministers say it is part of wider plans to raise pay and encourage work and the government has so far resisted calls to alter its plans. 

Under the government's plans, the earnings level above which tax credits are withdrawn will be lowered from £6,420 to £3,850 while the rate at which the benefit is lost as pay rises will be speeded up. The changes are due to come into effect at the end of the year.

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