Starmer faces first rebellion as MPs set to vote on ending two-child benefit cap as 1.6m kids miss out on £288 a month

Rebel Labour MPs defy Starmer

Rebel Labour MPs have pledged to defy Sir Keir Starmer and back the scrapping of the two-child benefit cap in a crucial vote tonight. This move marks the first rebellion faced by Sir Keir since becoming PM.

Pressure mounts on Starmer

Sir Keir Starmer has been under increasing pressure from his own party to abolish the policy, which was implemented by the Tories back in 2017. Figures from the Department for Work and Pensions reveal that 1.6 million children are missing out on an additional £288 per month due to this cap.

SNP amendment stirs the pot

More than 10 hard-left Labour MPs are expected to support an SNP amendment calling for an end to the two-child benefit cap. SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn emphasized that scrapping the cap is crucial in addressing child poverty.

Reeves deems move unaffordable

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has maintained that scrapping the cap is unaffordable in the current economic climate. DWP Secretary Liz Kendall expressed her commitment to reducing child poverty but stressed the need for a comprehensive approach.

Labour MPs face a choice

Labour MPs are at a crossroads as they prepare to vote on the SNP amendment. The decision to either lift children out of poverty or maintain the status quo lies in their hands.

McDonnell's stance

Former shadow Chancellor John McDonnell, among the Labour MPs set to rebel, stated his support for the SNP amendment, prioritizing the well-being of children over party politics.