Will Keir Starmer scrap the two-child benefit cap? What to know

PoliticsPersonal Finance
6 Jul 2025 • 6:37 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Sir Keir Starmer's Labour Party has reportedly decided against scrapping the controversial two-child benefit cap.
  • This decision follows a U-turn on welfare cuts, which has left a significant £5bn hole in Labour's spending plans.
  • Senior Labour figures have indicated that potential tax increases may be necessary to offset the financial implications of not approving welfare changes.
  • Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson stated that recent decisions have made future spending choices, particularly those aimed at tackling child poverty, more challenging.
  • The move is expected to cause further discontent among Labour backbenchers, while critics argue the cap contributes to child poverty.

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