High Peak MP slammed on Twitter after abstaining over benefit top-up

On Monday Robert joined fellow Conservative MPs in abstaining from the vote to extend the benefit - introduced during the pandemic - in-line with party orders.

Since news of the vote emerged High Peak voters have voiced their outrage on social media.

Some took to Twitter pouring doubt on the MP’s pledge to be ‘independent-minded’ and put the High Peak ‘ahead of party politics’ during a House of Commons speech.

Reg Oyn wrote: “I know he claims to be independent minded, but how many times has he voted against the government, how many times has he abstained, and how many times has he followed the party line?”

Commenting on news that six rebel Tory MPs had backed Monday’s motion Pauline B wrote: “No surprise my ‘independent minded’ MP for High Peak, Robert Largan, wasn’t one of them.”

Other Twitter users said Robert’s abstention contradicted a column in the Advertiser in which he welcomed Government mental health reforms as part of post-Covid rebuilding in Britain.

Gent Cyclist wrote: “Does he explain why he believes cutting financial support to the most vulnerable in society won't affect their mental health?”

While Pauline B wrote: “Does Mr Largan understand that being financially insecure can lead to mental health issues?

“Perhaps he should have voted to maintain the extra £20 pw UC, rather than abstaining.”

Speaking to the Advertiser today (Wednesday) Robert said the universal credit increase was ‘just one measure in a £7.4 billion package of support’.

He added: “That temporary increase is due to be reviewed as part of the Budget in March.

“If the public health crisis is still acute at that point I believe the temporary support measures will need to be extended.”

Addressing questions over his political independence Robert said: "I am proud to take an independent-minded approach and have voted against my own party on several occasions - most recently to call for more support for local businesses in the High Peak affected by lockdown.

"I have been even more prepared to criticise my party when they get things wrong, like I did when I campaigned to save Goyt Valley House care home in New Mills.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.