Wales’ First Minister, Eluned Morgan, has urged UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer to abolish the two-child benefit cap, a policy introduced by the Conservative government in 2017. The cap restricts families from claiming means-tested benefits for any third or additional children born after April 2017. Morgan expressed deep concern over the policy’s impact on child poverty in Wales, describing it as “damaging” and a significant barrier for many families seeking financial support.
The Welsh government’s call for the policy’s removal has sparked political debate. Plaid Cymru accused Morgan of “staggering hypocrisy,” citing her previous criticism of similar proposals. In contrast, Welsh Conservatives warned that eliminating the cap could lead to increased financial burdens on taxpayers. The UK government is expected to announce its decision on the cap in the autumn, coinciding with the publication of its child poverty strategy.
Morgan emphasized that the issue is not new for the Welsh government but has become more urgent as the UK approaches key financial decisions. She highlighted the need for equitable distribution of resources, including funding for rail infrastructure in Wales, and urged the UK government to consider the broader implications of its policies on child poverty.
The debate continues as the UK government prepares for its upcoming spending review, with the potential to reshape policies affecting families across the nation. The outcome will have significant implications for social welfare and the government’s commitment to addressing child poverty.
