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The Government has been urged to make a decision on Hull's request to trial Universal Basic Income - and asked to reveal the predicted "time scales" of any pilot.

The fresh pressure to allow Hull to become the first city in the UK to trial Universal Basic Income (UBI) comes from an MP who has stepped into the debate.

Layla Moran MP has urged Chancellor Sajid Javid to accept Hull City Council's proposal's for Hull to be considered, saying it's clear our "welfare system is broken", and urged the Government to do something about it.

The Oxford West and Abingdon MP tabled a parliamentary question on Tuesday, February 4, asking the Chancellor if he will allow Hull to hold the pilot, and if so, when it could happen.

(Image: PA)

If introduced, UBI would give every person a fixed, untaxed sum - which could be up to £100 a week - to live on, whether they are rich or poor, in work or unemployed.

Following a letter sent from the council's chief executive, Matt Jukes, to Chancellor Sajid Javid, the MP's question asked: "To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if he will make it his policy to undertake a universal basic income pilot in Kingston upon Hull; and whether he has made an estimate of the timescale for the implementation of such pilots."

WATCH: What is a universal basic income?

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The MP argued that the policy could change the lives of those hard-working families who have been left behind, especially in the north of England.

She said: "It’s clear our welfare system is broken, and we need to start trying something different.

"That’s why I’ve asked the Government if they would consider running a Universal Basic Income trial in Hull, a move that was recently backed across party lines by all councillors.

(Image: Philip Toscano/PA Wire)

“So many places, particularly in the north of England, like Hull are being left behind by this Government. Why would they not be willing to pioneer this fresh progressive idea in Hull and show that they’re not just all talk when it comes to the ‘Northern Powerhouse’?

“I’m proud the Liberal Democrats are championing evidence-based policy. That’s why I and my colleagues in Hull want to at least try out Universal Basic Income to see if it can fix the system that is letting so many people down.”

Councillor Jack Haines who called for Hull to host the pilot said the pressure from an MP is a big step forward.

He said: "The Government absolutely have to take our calls seriously now.

"I expect them to give us an answer soon with this added pressure.

"I’m delighted this idea has been brought to Parliament, universal basic income is a top up for everyone that ensures they can live their lives free from poverty, financial worry and economic insecurity.”

UBI has been met with both praise and criticism. Those who support the scheme say it could end poverty, whilst those who are not in support of it have called it "bonkers."