Angela Rayner Remains Tight-Lipped on Potential Scrapping of Two-Child Benefit Cap

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has declined to confirm whether the UK government plans to abolish the controversial two-child benefit cap. The policy, introduced in 2017, restricts most families from claiming means-tested benefits for any third or additional children born after that date. Rayner emphasized that the government is considering various measures to address child poverty but refrained from speculating on specific policy changes.

The two-child cap has been a point of contention within the Labour Party. While some members advocate for its removal, others express concerns about the financial implications. Rayner highlighted the establishment of a Child Poverty Taskforce as a step toward evaluating and addressing the challenges associated with child poverty. The taskforce is expected to release its strategy in the autumn.

In addition to discussions about the two-child cap, Rayner addressed a leaked memo from her department proposing to reclaim child benefit payments from wealthier families. She denied involvement in the leak and reiterated her commitment to tackling child poverty through comprehensive and evidence-based measures.

As the government prepares for the autumn Budget, all eyes are on potential policy shifts that could impact families and the broader social welfare landscape. The upcoming strategy from the Child Poverty Taskforce is anticipated to provide further clarity on the government’s direction.