Documents to download

This Library Note was prepared for a debate in the House of Lords on the impact of personal indebtedness in UK households, especially on children, which was scheduled to take place on 17 July 2014, but was postponed to a future date. The Note gives an overview of current levels of personal indebtedness in the UK and examines reports relating to its impact on households. The Note then considers the specific impact household indebtedness has on children, before examining some of the suggested causes of problem debt in UK households. The Note also provides an overview of government policy on the issue and the action it has taken to date.

Documents to download

Related posts

  • US tariffs: Background, perspectives and impact on the UK

    The US has announced significant increases in tariffs on imports, although has delayed full implementation. Many economists view tariffs unfavourably, arguing that they raise prices, reduce competition and risk retaliation. But others suggest that tariffs may benefit the country that applies them. UK exports to the US face an additional 10% tariff. This could be negative for UK exports and the economy. But there could be some upsides for the UK if the US goes ahead with higher “reciprocal” tariffs on many of the UK’s competitors.

    US tariffs: Background, perspectives and impact on the UK

  • Tobacco and Vapes Bill: HL Bill 89 of 2024–25

    The bill aims to create a 'smoke-free generation' by banning tobacco sales to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009, alongside other measures to tackle smoking and tobacco harms. It would also further regulate vaping, curbing its appeal to children, while enabling adult smokers to use vapes as a quitting tool. The bill is similar to the Tobacco and Vapes Bill which fell at dissolution 2024.

    Tobacco and Vapes Bill: HL Bill 89 of 2024–25