Gordon Brown has criticized the potential impact of a Nigel Farage-led government, warning that it could lead to increased child poverty and hardship for pensioners. Brown highlighted Reform UK’s proposed cuts exceeding £200 billion annually, likening it to the closure of vital services like the NHS and schools. The plan to reduce public funding to 35% of GDP, as outlined by Richard Tice, Farage’s associate, could result in a significant £275 billion cut.
Brown urged action against Farage’s agenda, emphasizing the potential consequences of not opposing Reform UK, including limited access to healthcare, disability support, and unemployment benefits. He expressed concerns over the existing Tory policies that have left millions of children in poverty.
The former Prime Minister criticized Farage’s intentions to drastically reduce public services, noting the severe implications such actions could have on society. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding essential services to prevent a surge in child poverty and increased hardships for pensioners under a Farage government.
During a party conference in Liverpool, Brown commended Labour’s efforts to confront Reform UK and cautioned voters against underestimating the threats posed by the Conservative party. He highlighted the growing poverty levels resulting from 14 years of Tory rule, with over 4.5 million children experiencing poverty.
Brown shared concerning statistics, revealing the challenging living conditions faced by many children in the UK, including inadequate housing and food insecurity. He stressed the urgency of addressing these issues and implementing proactive measures to uplift families from poverty.
Additionally, Brown defended the government’s decision to review child poverty, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive long-term strategy to support vulnerable families. He advocated for initiatives that go beyond providing mere safety nets, aiming to create opportunities for families to break free from the cycle of poverty.