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What does the abolition of the two-child benefit cap mean for families?
The abolition means that families can now claim child benefits for more than two children without facing restrictions. This change is expected to help around 450,000 children escape poverty, providing financial relief and reducing hardship for larger families who previously faced cuts to their support.
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How will lifting the benefit cap affect child poverty in the UK?
Lifting the cap is projected to significantly reduce child poverty, especially among larger families. By removing the limit, families will have more financial support, which can improve living conditions, access to education, and overall wellbeing for children in need.
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What new taxes are funding this policy change?
The policy is funded by new taxes, including a gambling levy and a mansion tax. These measures aim to generate the revenue needed to support increased welfare spending while ensuring the burden is shared fairly across different sectors of society.
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How does this policy compare to previous UK welfare policies?
Previously, the two-child benefit cap was introduced in 2017 to limit welfare spending, but it faced widespread criticism for increasing hardship among larger families. The recent repeal marks a shift towards more generous social support, aligning with Labour’s broader agenda to tackle child poverty and promote social justice.
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What are the political reactions to this policy change?
The move has received praise from Labour leaders and charities, who see it as a moral and economic necessity. However, some political tensions remain, with debates about the cost and the best ways to fund social welfare programs, reflecting ongoing disagreements over welfare policy in the UK.