The pros and cons of a Universal Basic Income in London
The Basic Income Earth Network, an advocacy organisation, defines a basic income as “a periodic cash payment unconditionally delivered to all on an individual basis, without means-test or work requirement.”1
There is currently one active Universal Basic Income (UBI) trial in the UK: the Welsh Government commissioned a 3-year trial running from July 2022, involving 500 care leavers receiving a monthly payment of £1,600.2
The London Assembly Economy, Culture and Skills Committee will meet tomorrow to understand the benefits and drawbacks associated with a Universal Basic Income (UBI) in London, and evaluate how far a UBI would be effective in addressing some of the most acute problems faced by Londoners.
The two panels are split to hear from one set of guests that are supportive of the idea of UBI, with the second panel made up of guests who take a more sceptical view.
The guests are:
Panel 1:
- Professor Elliott Johnson, Vice Chancellor’s Fellow in Public Policy, Northumbria University
- Dr Otto Lehto, Postdoctoral Researcher, New York University
- Professor Guy Standing, Professorial Research Associate, School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London
- Dr Will Stronge, Chief Executive, The Autonomy Institute
Panel 2:
- Anna Coote, Principal Fellow, New Economics Foundation
- Dr Joe Chrisp, Research Associate, Institute of Policy Research, University of Bath
- Professor David Piachaud, Emeritus Professor of Social Policy, London School of Economics
- Dr Matthew Thompson, Lecturer in Urban Studies, University College London, University of London
The meeting will take place on Wednesday 25 June 2025 from 10am in the Chamber at City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE.
Media and members of the public are invited to attend.
The meeting can also be viewed LIVE or later via webcast or YouTube.
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Notes to editors
- Basic Income Earth Network, About basic income
- Welsh Government, Basic income pilot for care leavers: overview of the scheme, February 2023
- Full agenda papers.
- Hina Bokhari OBE AM, Chair of the Economy, Culture and Skills Committee, is available for interview.
- Find out more about the work of the Economy, Culture and Skills Committee.
- As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.
For more information, please contact Tony Smyth in the Assembly Media Office on 07763 251727 or [email protected]. For out of hours media enquiries please call 020 7983 4000 and ask for the Assembly duty press officer.