Labour’s Rachel Reeves criticizes the Conservative Party and Reform UK as the government moves to eliminate the restrictive two-child benefit cap. Chancellor Kemi Badenoch of the Conservatives vowed to reinstate the policy, which has been condemned for perpetuating child poverty.
Reeves, in an interview with The Mirror, highlighted the contrast in approaches between the political parties. She expressed concern over the Tories and Reform likely opposing the change, despite the impact on working families. She also criticized Reform leader Nigel Farage’s inconsistency on the issue.
Opposition leader Keir Starmer warned that the Tory and Reform UK proposals could push hundreds of thousands of children back into poverty if implemented. Labour’s analysis indicated that reinstating the policy could plunge 470,000 children into poverty, whereas Reform’s adjustments would only benefit a fraction of that number.
Reeves had previously announced plans to abolish the two-child limit, aiming to uplift 450,000 children out of poverty. She rejected calls for legally binding child poverty targets, arguing that such measures could constrain future governments.
In response, the Chancellor emphasized the importance of voting for a Labour government to safeguard policies like scrapping the two-child limit. She highlighted the tangible differences in outcomes for children depending on which party is in power.
The ongoing debate underscores the divergent approaches of the major political parties in addressing child poverty and social welfare issues.