SDLP Leader Dr Alasdair McDonnell has raised concerns over a decision by the High Court to reject a challenge by disabled families to overturn social housing benefit cuts for residents with spare bedrooms in England, Wales and Scotland.

Mr McDonnell said: "I am disappointed that the High Court has rejected the argument that the bedroom tax unlawfully discriminates against disabled people.

-- Advertisement --

"This decision sets an alarming precedent for people living in Northern Ireland who are waiting to see what the Minister for Social Development will do over the arbitrary and patently unfair bedroom tax policy.

"The SDLP has been consistent in its opposition to the Tory bedroom tax which will affect over 32,000 people in the north, many vulnerable, if it comes into effect. We won't let this happen and will lodge our petition of concern if necessary to kill it.

"People are asking questions about how welfare cuts and the bedroom tax will affect them and their loved ones. We are hopeful however that the Minister for Social Development will do the right thing and do it quickly."

(CD/JP)