Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson revealed that the government is contemplating scrapping the two-child benefit cap, which limits welfare claims for additional children born after April 2017. She cited the cap's role in driving families into poverty, although she cautioned that altering the policy would come with significant financial implications. The upcoming autumn announcement may coincide with a new child poverty strategy, as the government faces increasing pressure from various political factions to address welfare cuts and assist impoverished families, with Labour poised to prioritize tackling child poverty.
Bridget Phillipson emphasized the government's consideration of scrapping the two-child benefit cap, noting it has contributed to poverty while acknowledging the financial challenges involved in making changes.
While the government delays the decision on the cap until autumn, Phillipson noted that unwinding the policy will be complicated and expensive, stating, 'The cost of inaction is also incredibly high.'
The Child Poverty Taskforce is reviewing the cap, with Labour's leadership suggesting a potential repeal 'when fiscal conditions allow,' hinting at readiness for policy reform.
Phillipson argued that 'Labour governments make different choices,' underscoring their commitment to addressing child poverty through a different approach than the current administration.
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