The EU Referendum and UK Poverty

The briefing pulls together existing evidence on work, housing, the economy and welfare. Key points include:

• Leaving the EU could save the UK its net contribution of £9.9 billion which could be spent on poverty reduction.
• A devaluation of the pound following a leave vote could increase the cost of imported goods and services which would impact people who already live in poverty.
• The North East, Northern Ireland and the East Midlands would be hardest hit by any increased barriers to trade with the EU.
• Some of the most deprived parts of the UK such as Wales and Cornwall receive £2.1 billion of funding from the EU to support development.

This briefing provides a guide on the issues being debated. Whether the UK votes to stay or to go, it’s vital that people and places in poverty are not left behind.