Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has sparked controversy by stating that a £100,000 salary is "not a huge salary" for residents of his Surrey constituency.
Mr. Hunt made these remarks on X, formerly known as Twitter, where he shared insights into his conversations while serving as the MP for South West Surrey. He recounted a discussion with a resident from Godalming regarding eligibility for the government’s childcare offer, highlighting that the offer is not accessible if one parent earns more than £100,000. He added, "I am aware that it is not a huge salary in our area if you have a mortgage to pay."
The Labour Party swiftly criticized Mr. Hunt's comments, accusing the Tories of being out of touch with ordinary working people. Jonathan Ashworth MP, Labour’s Shadow Paymaster General, emphasized the disparity between the Chancellor's perspective and the reality faced by most working individuals. Ashworth pointed out that the majority of working people would consider a £100,000 salary a dream, highlighting the economic challenges exacerbated by Tory policies.
Surrey county councillor Paul Follows, who is contesting against Mr. Hunt as the Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate, suggested that Mr. Hunt's perspective might stem from his wealth, implying that it's far above the national or local average. Robert Evans OBE, another Surrey county councillor, echoed this sentiment, stating that £100,000 is well beyond the means of many residents he represents, particularly in areas like Spelthorne where the average household income is significantly lower.
The discussion also touches upon government policies related to childcare and household income eligibility. Under current regulations, working parents can receive free childcare for children aged three and four, with individual earnings limits set between £8,670 and £100,000. Mr. Hunt recently announced adjustments to child benefit eligibility criteria in the Budget, raising the threshold for full child benefit to households where the highest-earning parent earns up to £60,000, up from the previous limit of £50,000, and introducing partial child benefit for households where the highest earner earns up to £80,000.
Mr. Hunt has yet to respond to requests for comment on the matter.