Derby, you've let me down!!!

[basa]

Originally Posted by Nugget

But, to a certain degree, all new mothers are dependant on the state - Statutory Maternity Pay is controlled by the state, as are Child Benefit and Tax Credits.

Anyway, by definition, single mothers will be dependant on the state (amongst others) for a certain period of time after birth, becuase they aren't working - that;s just the way it is.

I think you are being somewhat pedantic here Nug, my kids and missus aren't state dependants and never have been. Yes we all benefit from state help and her indoors has never worked so didn't get maternity pay, but we started our family only when we were sure we could support ourselves adequately.

IMO this should be the aim for all new families.

[Nugget]

Originally Posted by basa

I think you are being somewhat pedantic here Nug, my kids and missus aren't state dependants and never have been. Yes we all benefit from state help and her indoors has never worked so didn't get maternity pay, but we started our family only when we were sure we could support ourselves adequately.

IMO this should be the aim for all new families.

Pedantic? Me?

TBH, I see what you're saying in that this should be the aim, but it's not necessarily possible in all circumstances - let's face it, we're lucky enough to have a state supported benefit system that's there for the good of everyone but, unfortunately, some people do seem to take an excessive amount from it.

Having said that, I personally believe that there is a difference between someone taking an excessive amount and 'spongers' - as much as people may disagree with this guys actions, he's only claiming what he / they are entitled to. Moreover (and has been said elsewhere in this thread), 508 quid a week isn't actually that much money for 17 people - it only works out at £29.88 each. To put that in context, if someone smoked 20 Lambert & Butler a day, that would cost £30.80 a week.

[basa]

Originally Posted by Nugget

Pedantic? Me?

TBH, I see what you're saying in that this should be the aim, but it's not necessarily possible in all circumstances - let's face it, we're lucky enough to have a state supported benefit system that's there for the good of everyone but, unfortunately, some people do seem to take an excessive amount from it.

Having said that, I personally believe that there is a difference between someone taking an excessive amount and 'spongers' - as much as people may disagree with this guys actions, he's only claiming what he / they are entitled to. Moreover (and has been said elsewhere in this thread), 508 quid a week isn't actually that much money for 17 people - it only works out at £29.88 each. To put that in context, if someone smoked 20 Lambert & Butler a day, that would cost £30.80 a week.

In a way you are quite right, they are claiming no more than they have a right to.
But like many feel, it does seem to be adding insult to *demand* a bigger house because they are over productive ..

I can't imagine the thought process .. we've got loads of kids and no support .. OK let's have more kids !! Or the single girl / woman .. I have no income and no support, how can I improve my circumstance ? Oh I know, I'll get knocked up and the state will provide for me whilst my parents look after my offspring.

At the end of the day, I struggle to support my two and the missus on not much less. Plus you should remember they will get reduced rent, council tax and free dentist etc.

[pedantic]

Originally Posted by Nugget

Pedantic? Me?

[Nugget]

Originally Posted by pedantic

You pedant

[pedantic]

Originally Posted by Nugget

You pedant

I'm sure I was just insulted

[Nugget]

Originally Posted by pedantic

I'm sure I was just insulted

I can be more open about it if you're confused - thicko

[pedantic]

Originally Posted by Nugget

I can be more open about it if you're confused - thicko

Please do ! We don't all have your ginger brain cells