We live in the 4th richest country in the world. But who benefits and at whose expense?

In 1979 the richest 5th of the population accounted for 43% of all earned income and the poorest 5th 2.6%. In 1996, the figures were 50% and 2.4% respectively and that gap has widened since. In the same period the UK's GDP rose substantially, the poor are now getting a smaller slice of a much bigger pie. The number of families living below the poverty line rose by 60% in the 1980s and by 1996 the UK had the highest proportion of children living in poverty in Europe. In all, 17% of the UK now live below the poverty line. However, the richest 1% of the population is doing well, their share of the nation's wealth increased from 18% to 23% between 1990 and 2000.

Politicians may crow about low unemployment and inflation but how meaningful is it? This poverty makes a mockery of the low unemployment figures and it is poor pay for the majority that keeps inflation under control. This in addition to working the longest hours in Europe with the weakest workers rights and amongst the highest cost of living. We live in the 'sweatshop of Western Europe' and we're being overcharged for the pleasure. The responsibility for this must lie with our elected representatives. Hold 'Em To Account!

Internationally unfair trade practices and aid conditions increase world poverty for the UK economy's benefit. 30,000 children die each day from poverty through hunger, easily preventable desease and lack of clean water. The eradication of this could easily be achieved if our elected politicians had the will to do so, and their continued support for unfair trade and aid compounds this injustice. Hold 'Em To Account!