Keir Starmer Sends a Clear Message
Keir Starmer, the new British Prime Minister, sent a clear message to the left wing of his party on July 23. Less than three weeks after winning the general elections with a large majority, he immediately sanctioned a beginning of rebellion by a handful of members of parliament, seeking to stifle any internal dissent.
Rebellion and Suspension
During the evening, the government’s program, presented in a “king’s speech” on July 17, was voted on in the House of Commons. While all 404 Labour members of parliament voted in favor, the Scottish National Party (SNP) proposed an amendment to extend child benefits to a third child, even though they are currently limited to two children. Seven left-wing Labour MPs voted in favor, leading to their suspension from the parliamentary Labour group for six months by Mr. Starmer.
Controversial Topic of Poverty
The suspension shocked Labour MPs, especially given the topic of child poverty. The limitation of child benefits to two children was imposed by the Conservatives in 2017, angering the Labour Party at the time. Reversing this policy would cost billions, making it a popular idea among Labour MPs, although the new government emphasizes the need for fiscal discipline.
Future Plans and Budget Discussion
While the government does not completely rule out ending the two-child limit, it plans to address the issue during the budget presentation in the autumn. According to Agriculture Minister Steve Reed, the timing of the opposition’s amendment on Tuesday evening was not conducive to discussing this matter.
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