A Times article reported that charities and companies working within the UC (Universal Credit) parameters have had to sign clauses to ensure they don’t ruin the reputation of Esther McVey, Work and Pensions Secretary.
Around 22 organisations, covering around £1.8 billion, have signed these gagging clauses, which the Government denies.
However a Government spokesman confirmed contracts did include references to ensure both parties “understand how to interact with each other and protect their best interests”.
The Times reported that the organisations that signed the agreement must “not do anything which may attract adverse publicity.”
A DWP spokesperson said: “It’s completely untrue to suggest that organisations are banned from criticising Universal Credit. As with all arrangements like this, they include a reference which enables both parties to understand how to interact with each other and protect their best interests.
“This is in place to safeguard any commercial sensitive information for both government and the organisation involved.”
Esther McVey admits some families will be worse off on Universal Credit
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