Labour deputy leadership candidate Lucy Powell is increasing pressure on the Government to eliminate the two-child limit policy. Powell emphasized the need for clarity from the Government regarding its intention to remove the limit in the upcoming child poverty strategy. There have been calls from MPs, including Keir Starmer, to abolish the policy, which has been criticized for pushing families into financial struggles.
Manchester Central MP Lucy Powell also criticized Labour’s past decisions on winter fuel and disability benefit cuts, suggesting that they have portrayed the party as not supporting ordinary people. Powell, who is vying for the deputy leadership position against Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, highlighted the importance of addressing the two-child limit in the child poverty strategy being developed by Phillipson’s team.
Phillipson, involved in crafting the child poverty strategy, is expected to face pressure from MPs and party members to address the limitations imposed by the two-child policy on claims for Child Tax Credit and Universal Credit. Powell stressed the significance of the two-child limit in combating child poverty and urged for a clear commitment from the Labour Government to tackle this issue effectively.
Speaking on the BBC’s Political Thinking podcast, Powell emphasized the need for a cohesive vision within the party to unite progressive voters. She highlighted the importance of a fairer economy that prioritizes the interests of the majority, emphasizing the need for Labour to clearly communicate whose side they are on and what values they represent.
Powell expressed her preference not to return to the Cabinet but rather serve as a bridge between the broader party and the Labour leadership. She hinted at being dismissed due to her candid stance on issues like benefit cuts.
In the deputy leadership race, Phillipson, backed by Downing Street, has secured more MP nominations and endorsements from trade unions and constituency parties. However, polling indicates that Powell holds a lead among party members. Phillipson, during her campaign launch in Sunderland, emphasized the need for party unity, promising to bring about the desired change and defeat Reform. She highlighted the goal of delivering a second term of Labour government and providing hope and opportunities to families nationwide.