A vote on the two-child benefit cap is set to take place this evening in the Commons, potentially leading to Keir Starmer facing his first rebellion as prime minister. The SNP’s amendment calling for the cap to be scrapped has been selected for a vote, with MPs from various parties supporting its removal. Former chancellor John McDonnell has declared his intention to vote for the SNP amendment.
Meanwhile, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has warned the cabinet of the need to make difficult decisions on public spending as pressure mounts to scrap the two-child benefit limit. Reeves highlighted the financial pressures inherited from the previous government and emphasized the necessity of fixing the foundations of public finances.
In international news, plans for Keir Starmer to meet with Ursula von der Leyen have been postponed to the autumn due to scheduling conflicts. The meeting, intended to discuss the UK-EU reset, was delayed as Von der Leyen was preoccupied with her re-election as President of the European Commission.
Overall, these developments signal a potential challenge for Starmer as he navigates his leadership in the face of internal party dissent and external diplomatic engagements. The outcome of the vote on the two-child benefit cap and future discussions with the EU will be crucial in shaping the direction of Starmer’s government.
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