This may be a one term Labour Government because it has failed to strike a balance in welfare reform. The scrapping of the 2 child benefit cap has given both the Conservatives and Reform the ammunition it needs to win the next General Election.
The 2 child benefit cap offers no incentives to dissuade larger families living off benefits. Why did Rachel Reeves not just go to a 3 or even a 4 child cap limit instead, no she basically waded into the argument with a big blank checkbook. This showed little regard for taxpayers money. Without any regards for how the majority of taxpayers regard the unpopular benefits system and no considerations for the longevity of Keir Starmer’s Labour Government.
Reeves ‘ budget will cost Labour the next General Election
Benefits and Welfare have always been Labour’s weak spot open to attack from right wing parties. This Labour Government have just dropped their guard and have exposed themselves to a knockout punch. Reeves’ budget has cost Labour the next General Election. Just who is advising Kier Starmer and Rachel Reeves? Whoever it is must have very short political memories. Labour needed to defend it’s record on Welfare and Benefits as history has shown this to be the area where they are the most vulnerable. Public opinion of these Benefit changes will not be good.
This is a real setback. Labour will be attacked for being irresponsible with the taxpayers money and encouraging exploitation of the benefits system. Reeves has left them no room to manoeuvre as now Labour’s back is now against the wall. There is no reason for families greater than 4 children unless you can afford to support them without the need to claim benefits. This should be a personal decision based on your financial circumstances. To extend your families beyond 3 or 4 children should be done without relying on additional state support.