Rachel Reeves criticizes the Conservatives and Reform UK as the government moves to eliminate the restrictive two-child benefit policy. The Chancellor clashed with Nigel Farage over the issue, with Reform UK opposing the changes. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch affirmed her party’s intention to reinstate the two-child benefit limit, which has been linked to child poverty.
In an interview with The Mirror before presenting legislation to abolish the policy, Reeves questioned the stance of the Tories and Reform. She highlighted that despite the majority of affected families being working families, the Tories are expected to vote against the change. Reeves emphasized the detrimental impact of child poverty on society and criticized Farage for his shifting position on the issue.
Keir Starmer cautioned that the plans of the Tories and Reform UK could push hundreds of thousands of children back into poverty if they assume power. Labour’s analysis projected that reintroducing the policy, as proposed by the Conservatives, would plunge 470,000 children into poverty. Under Reform’s adjustments, only a minimal number of children would benefit.
Reeves previously announced the plan to eliminate the two-child benefit limit, aiming to uplift 450,000 children out of poverty, a move applauded by child poverty advocates. She rejected calls for binding targets on child poverty, arguing that such measures could restrict future governments.
The Chancellor emphasized that only a Labour government could ensure the permanence of progressive changes like scrapping the two-child limit. She highlighted the tangible impact of these policies on children’s lives and urged voters to recognize the differences between political parties in addressing key social issues.