John Swinney warns Labour ‘Scotland will never forgive you’ if party blocks ending two-child cap

SNP Deputy Political Editor, 5 DEC 2024 – John Swinney, Deputy Political Editor for the SNP, issued a strong warning to Labour stating, “Scotland will never forgive you” if the UK Government obstructs the abolition of the two-child cap on benefits. The SNP surprised many with their commitment to alleviate the impacts of this widely disliked policy in Scotland. However, the party did not provide concrete details on the timeline or the financial implications of this action.

During her annual Budget statement, Finance Secretary Shona Robison announced that the Scottish Government would spend the next year preparing to eliminate the two-child cap. This plan hinges on cooperation from the UK Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) for access to relevant data. Swinney stressed the importance of the DWP not impeding progress, declaring his determination to lift children in Scotland out of poverty.

Swinney emphasised that the government’s priority is to support struggling families and eradicate child poverty. He called for cross-party collaboration, expressing expectations for bipartisan support in parliament. The Finance Secretary of Labour, Paul O’Kane, raised concerns about the lack of financial allocation and a delivery plan in Robison’s Budget to fulfil this commitment.

Introduced nationwide in 2015 by Tory Chancellor George Osborne, the two-child cap on benefits has been a contentious issue. The move by the Scottish Government may not come into effect before the 2026 Holyrood election, where the SNP faces a challenging contest against Labour. Swinney requires at least two votes from other parties to pass the government’s spending plans for the upcoming year.

Despite Labour’s willingness to engage constructively, uncertainties remain regarding funding for the abolition of the two-child cap. The SNP’s proactive stance on this issue underscores their commitment to alleviating financial hardships faced by families in Scotland. The political landscape in Scotland may witness shifts in policies and alliances as parties navigate discussions on critical social welfare issues in the coming years.

In conclusion, John Swinney’s bold stance on ending the two-child cap highlights the SNP government’s determination to address child poverty in Scotland. The call for cross-party support underscores the need for collaborative efforts in tackling societal challenges. As political dynamics evolve, it is crucial for policymakers to prioritise initiatives that have a tangible impact on improving the lives of vulnerable groups in society. The debate around welfare reforms and poverty reduction will continue to shape future policy decisions and political discourse in Scotland.