Starmer says Reform UK and Tories are in ‘cruel alliance’, as bill to get rid of two-child benefit cap unveiled – UK politics live

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 14 min read 100% complete by Andrew SparrowJanuary 8, 2026 at 11:33 AM

AI Summary

long article 14 min

The UK government is unveiling legislation to remove the two-child limit on Universal Credit, a move they claim will lift almost 500,000 children out of poverty. Labour leader Keir Starmer, who previously supported the cap as evidence of fiscal responsibility, is now criticizing the Conservatives and Reform UK for potentially reinstating it. Starmer accuses them of forming a "cruel alliance" that would harm children's life chances. He now champions Labour's commitment to abolishing the cap, contrasting it with the perceived policies of the other parties. Starmer argues that removing the cap is beneficial for children, families, and the economy.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Laura Kuenssberg 40% UK 50% Nigel Farage 60% Labour Party 60% Conservative Party (Tories) ×680% Reform UK ×480% Keir Starmer ×490%

Keywords

child poverty 100% two-child benefit cap 90% universal credit 70% anti-poverty policy 60% keir starmer 60% reform uk 50% conservatives 50% spending 40% general election 40%