Former Labour leader Neil Kinnock has demanded the government scrap the two-child cap on benefits. He argues this policy change would lift hundreds of thousands of children out of poverty. Additionally, Kinnock called for a wealth tax on the richest 1% to fund social reforms. Kinnock expressed outrage over rising poverty levels. He stated, “These conditions would make Charles Dickens furious.” The Labour peer emphasized that child poverty has worsened under Conservative rule. He urged immediate action to reverse this trend.
Kinnock acknowledged that abolishing the policy entirely may take time. However, he insisted progress must start now. “Ending this cap would reduce child poverty by 600,000,” he said. He compared his proposal to “Robin Hood economics” but defended it as necessary. The two-child limit, introduced in 2017, restricts benefits for third or subsequent children. Recent data shows 1.7 million kids now live in households impacted by this rule. Last year alone, 37,000 more children were pushed into hardship.
Gordon Brown, another former Labour leader, also supports abolishing the cap. He believes it is one of the most effective ways to combat child poverty. Both leaders argue that vulnerable families need stronger support. Kinnock criticized the Conservatives for allowing poverty to rise. “Children have no voice, and parents feel powerless,” he said. He challenged anyone to see a child in need and not demand change.
A government spokesperson responded by highlighting their welfare reforms. They claimed work is the best route out of poverty. Officials also promised a new child poverty strategy later this year. Despite these assurances, campaigners insist more urgent action is needed. They argue the two-child policy unfairly penalizes low-income families. Many now pressure Labour to scrap the two-child cap if they win the next election.
Kinnock’s comments add to growing calls for bold anti-poverty measures. With child poverty at alarming levels, the demand to scrap the two-child cap grows louder. Advocates hope ministers will listen before more families suffer.
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