Starmer dodges questions on two-child benefit cap rebellion in first PMQs as PM

Keir Starmer avoided answering questions about a possible rebellion in the Commons regarding the two-child benefit limit on Wednesday. He tried to create a harmonious atmosphere during his first prime minister's questions as the leader of the opposition.

Two Scottish National party MPs inquired about the rebellion, which led to seven Labour backbenchers losing their party privileges for half a year. In response, Starmer shifted the conversation to focus on the SNP's track record in addressing child poverty.

In a recent parliamentary vote on an SNP amendment to the king's speech, former shadow chancellor John McDonnell, along with Rebecca Long-Bailey, Apsana Begum, Richard Burgon, Ian Byrne, Imran Hussain, and Zarah Sultana, were all suspended.

In a message released on Wednesday, Long-Bailey expressed her profound sorrow at being removed from her position of power, but explained that she believed she had no other choice.

Following a very polite initial conversation with Rishi Sunak, where they discussed Ukraine and other matters related to defense, Starmer faced questions from Stephen Flynn, the SNP's leader in Westminster.

Flynn pointed out that Gordon Brown, a former Labour prime minister, had suggested getting rid of the two-child limit on benefits for working-age individuals, which some people believe is a significant cause of poverty among children. However, Starmer instructed his MPs to vote against the SNP's proposed change. Flynn then asked Starmer, "What caused this shift in your stance, prime minister?"

The prime minister responded positively when asked about Gordon Brown, stating that the previous Labour government successfully helped millions of children out of poverty. He expressed pride in this accomplishment and assured that his government would tackle the issue with equal determination.

Referring to other programs like morning meal groups in elementary schools, Starmer stated: "Instead of criticizing others, he should first clarify why there has been an increase of 30,000 children living in poverty since the SNP took office."

After a couple of questions, SNP MP Pete Wishart brought up the same topic to Starmer. He inquired whether Starmer's positive reception after the election was already coming to an end due to the recent vote and suspensions.

Once more, Starmer highlighted the child poverty figures in Scotland during his speech. He also mentioned that the SNP shouldn't be giving speeches about what Scottish voters are thinking, especially after losing many seats in the election.

Speaking to journalists after Prime Minister's Questions, Starmer's political representative justified the choice to suspend the dissenters, stating that the prime minister had been informed before the action was taken.

"We have clearly stated our stance on the two-child limit and have explained why we have not promised to get rid of it during the campaign or afterwards," she stated.

"We understand the tough economic circumstances we've been left with, so we want to be honest and realistic about the promises we make. Going against the party's stance on the king's speech is a consequential decision."

Long-Bailey expressed her disappointment over being suspended from the party for six months. She felt strongly that she needed to stand up for her constituents who are not being heard, and she hopes the government will take action to help them. She has committed to working with the government and her fellow MPs to assist the people she represents.

Sultana told the Good Morning Britain show on ITV that she and her coworkers were subjected to a test of masculinity.

She stated, "I rested peacefully after standing up against child poverty that is impacting 4.3 million individuals in our nation. It was the correct decision, and I am happy I took action."

The House of Commons voted against the proposed amendment by Flynn with a significant majority of 363 to 103. This cap on child welfare payments, implemented in 2015 by former chancellor George Osborne, limits the amount of support provided to most families to their first two children.

During most of Starmer's initial PMQs as the leader of the government, he not just supported Sunak's views but also commended a few politicians from different parties, like Ed Davey, the head of the Liberal Democrats, who he applauded as someone who tirelessly supports caregivers. Starmer also humorously mentioned how he was glad to see Davey in formal attire instead of his usual wetsuit from campaign stunts.