Reform UK Announces U-Turn on Two-Child Benefit Cap
Reform UK has confirmed it will reinstate the two-child benefit cap if it wins the next general election, marking a significant policy reversal. Robert Jenrick, the party's Treasury spokesperson, announced this shift during his first speech in the role, emphasising the need for fiscal discipline.
Jenrick's Justification for Policy Change
In a speech delivered in the City of London, Mr Jenrick stated that Reform UK's existing policy to scrap the cap was "well meaning" as a means to encourage families to have more children. However, he declared it is now unaffordable, asserting that Reform must prioritise being a party of "workers, not welfare." He highlighted what he described as a severe lack of fiscal responsibility in current governance.
"Reform is changing our policy on the two-child cap for universal credit," Mr Jenrick explained. "The policy was well-meaning. We want to help British working families to have more children. But, right now, we just cannot afford to do so with welfare. So, it has to go."
Labour's Strong Condemnation
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer swiftly criticised the announcement, labelling it "shameful" in a post on social media platform X. He expressed pride in his government's decision to scrap what he called the "cruel two-child limit," warning that Reform's plan would push hundreds of thousands of children into poverty.
Labour Party chairwoman Anna Turley echoed this sentiment, accusing Reform of uniting the right behind a "cruel child poverty pact" that could see nearly half a million children fall into poverty. She contrasted this with Labour's approach, which she said focuses on lifting children out of poverty.
Broader Fiscal and Economic Policies
Mr Jenrick outlined additional economic measures, pledging to reform rather than abolish the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) and maintain the independence of the Bank of England. He argued that taxes are currently too high and should be reduced, but only when fiscal "headroom" allows, distancing himself from Liz Truss's controversial mini-budget.
"We want a simpler, fairer tax system that incentivises work, saving and investment," Mr Jenrick said. He proposed reviewing the tax code extensively, akin to Nigel Lawson's historic reforms, while cautioning against unsustainable tax cuts driven by deficit spending.
The Reform spokesperson also committed to cutting red tape and protecting key national industries such as steelmaking and car manufacturing. He warned of economic threats from China, advocating for robust responses to unfair trade practices to prevent job losses in Britain.
Recent Political Shifts
This announcement comes shortly after Nigel Farage, Reform UK's leader, named his top team. Mr Jenrick, who recently left the Conservative front bench where he served as shadow justice secretary, was appointed Treasury spokesperson. Former home secretary Suella Braverman, who also defected from the Conservatives last month, was named education, skills and equalities spokeswoman for Reform.
The party further plans to modify the Motability scheme and restrict welfare benefits to British nationals only, reinforcing its stance on fiscal conservatism and national priorities.
