Official Labour Party announcements or statements by Sir Keir Starmer

Labour Faces Rebellion Over Two-Child Benefit Cap as Seven MPs Suspended

Jul 23, 2024, 07:04 PM

The Labour Party is facing significant internal conflict over the two-child benefit cap policy. Despite increasing pressure from various MPs and campaigners, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has maintained the policy, leading to a rebellion within his party. Seven Labour MPs, including Zarah Sultana, Richard Burgon, and John McDonnell, voted against the party line to scrap the cap, resulting in their suspension from the party for six months. The SNP's amendment to abolish the cap was defeated in the House of Commons with 103 votes in favor and 363 against. Critics argue that the cap exacerbates child poverty, with estimates suggesting it affects hundreds of thousands of children. The Labour leadership's strict approach to discipline has sparked further debate about the party's direction and commitment to addressing child poverty.