The pandemic has shown that our welfare system is not fit for purpose. Millions of people have fallen through the gaps in the government's support packages. Families across the UK are facing poverty and hardship for the first time.

After decades of underinvestment, cities in the north are falling even further behind the south. London boroughs are seeing already-high rates of poverty skyrocket. We can't go on like this.

We urgently need to strengthen our welfare system. The creation of a Universal Basic Income (UBI) – a regular and unconditional cash payment to every person in the UK – could be a big part of the solution.

A Basic Income would provide financial security for all, giving everyone the resources they need to fulfil their potential. It would transform our social security system with a scheme fit for the 21st century ⁠– one that would allow everyone to develop and contribute their talents.

A Basic Income would build resilience into our society and our communities. It would provide the investment we need to rebuild our towns and cities. It would provide protection for everyone.

Mayors around the world, from Catalonia to California, are trying out UBI. Many have found that a guaranteed income allows their citizens to live happier, healthier and more secure lives. 18 councils across the UK, plus the Welsh Senedd, have now passed motions calling for a pilot in their areas, and the Scottish Government have funded a world-leading feasibility study into what pilots could look like.

The current welfare system is failing communities in every part of the UK. It's time to try something new. I am calling on candidates for Mayor to:

- Support calls to pilot Universal Basic Income in my community

- Lobby government for the devolved powers needed to pilot UBI

- Work with other Mayors across the UK to call for a new economic settlement, which includes trialling a Universal Basic Income