MP John Hayes firmly believes his vote to retain the controversial “bedroom tax” was the right one for South Holland.
Labour had made great play about securing the Commons debate and the vote on Wednesday on a welfare reform policy which it staunchly opposed, claiming it would scrap it if it won power in 2015.
In South Holland, the number of council house tenants affected by the benefit change is 374.
Mr Hayes said there was no question of him voting against his party.
He said: “This is part of our welfare reform to make things fairer.
“I am very aware of the demand for council houses in South Holland and the people who can’t get on the waiting list.”
However, not all residents believe the reform is fair.
Commenting on our Facebook page, readerJulie Stalford said: “I think it’s disgusting that you have to pay bedroom tax.
“I have lived in my house for 26 years and now they say I should give my home up to help others with bigger familyies. It’s all wrong.”
Hannah Katerina-Yelena Jessen said: “The trouble is some of us were moved by the council into properties technically classed as two-bedroom because there are very few or no one-bedroom properties available.
“Even though there isn’t anywhere to move to we are still forced to pay the bedroom tax.”
A spokesman for South Holland District Council said: “The district council is constantly striving to assist people who have been affected by the change, including events such as last month’s Match and Move, which enabled people to look into swapping their homes to better suit their needs.”
For further information on swapping properties, call the housing team on 01775 761161 or email info@sholland.gov.uk