Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has admitted she is "ashamed" of current child poverty levels as pressure mounts on the Labour government to scrap the controversial two-child benefit cap. Her emotional admission comes as faith leaders intensify their campaign for policy change.
Thirty-eight faith leaders are demanding ministers abandon the policy that limits child benefits to the first two children in most families. The coordinated pressure campaign represents one of the most significant religious interventions in recent welfare policy debates.
Faith leaders unite against policy
The Church of England's most senior bishop is among those applying pressure on the government, according to Mirror reports. The religious coalition spans multiple denominations and reflects growing concern about child poverty rates across faith communities.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces mounting pressure to reverse the policy amid warnings about its impact on vulnerable families. The two-child benefit cap has become a key battleground in Labour's approach to welfare spending and child poverty reduction.
Government acknowledges challenges
Phillipson acknowledged the cost implications of scrapping the cap but warned of serious consequences without action, according to Daily Mail reports. Her "ashamed" admission signals internal government recognition of the policy's controversial nature.
The Education Secretary's comments highlight the tension within Labour between fiscal responsibility and child welfare commitments. Opposition parties have seized on her remarks as evidence of government indecision on crucial social policy.
Sources used: "Morning Star", "Mirror", "Daily Mail" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
