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Review of Lords confirmed in wake of tax credit defeat

A review into how MPs can be given the "decisive role" over key financial decisions has been set up following the Government's humiliating Lords defeat over plans to cut tax credits.

Chancellor George Osborne has insisted he will press ahead with changes to reduce the welfare bill, despite the double defeat in the House of Lords.

David Cameron ordered a "rapid review" of the relationship between the two Houses of Parliament which will be chaired by former Lords leader Lord Strathclyde.

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Bishop of Portsmouth: Cuts are morally indefensible

The Bishop of Portsmouth, the Rt Rev Christopher Foster. Credit: House of Lords

The Bishop of Portsmouth, the Rt Rev Christopher Foster, said he was "appalled" by the government's tax credit proposals and urged ministers to think again.

Putting forward a 'regret motion', he called the cuts "morally indefensible" and said: "It's clear to me and many others that these proposals blatantly threaten damage to the lives of millions of our fellow citizens.

"This must not be the way to achieve the Government's goal at a cost to those, who if we believe the rhetoric, the Government intends to encourage and support.

"To many in my diocese and beyond this seems punishing rather than encouragement."

A regret motion offers the chance to voice concerns over a proposal but is not in any way binding to the government.

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Review of Lords confirmed in wake of tax credit defeat

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