Keir Starmer Faces Rebellion Over Welfare Policy

Britain's new Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, experienced his first parliamentary rebellion when several Labour lawmakers voted against his government on the two-child welfare limit. Despite Labour's majority, the resistance underscores the challenges Starmer faces in leading a unified party. Seven lawmakers were suspended, and the policy's critics argue it exacerbates child poverty.

Britain's new Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, faced his first rebellion in parliament on Tuesday when several Labour lawmakers defied the government over its stance on the two-child welfare limit. The incident highlights the complexities Starmer faces despite Labour's recent landslide victory.

Labour's overwhelming majority meant the vote was never in danger of failing. However, the opposition to the policy exposed the limits of Starmer's aspiration to lead a cohesive and disciplined party. Seven Labour lawmakers backed a motion to abolish the two-child benefit cap, a policy that prevents most parents from claiming welfare payments for more than two children.

Local media revealed that the dissidents, including Labour's former finance spokesperson John McDonnell, were temporarily suspended. Additionally, 42 Labour lawmakers did not register a vote, suggesting possible abstentions.

Critics argue that the cap, implemented by the Conservative government in 2017, is driving children into poverty. The government maintains that fiscal constraints inherited from the last administration necessitate such difficult choices.

"The government is committed to taking action to tackle child poverty," a spokesperson for Starmer stated on Tuesday.

(With inputs from agencies.)