Gordon Brown has been a vocal advocate for addressing child poverty for a significant period. His efforts during his tenure in the Labour government to combat this issue are often highlighted as a testament to the impact a Labour administration can have. However, with approximately 4.5 million children living in poverty, the highest figure in 60 years, it is unsurprising that the former Prime Minister is compelled to address the matter.
In a heartfelt address today, marking the 60th anniversary of the Child Poverty Action Group, Brown characterized child poverty as a “blemish on the conscience of our nation.” Just ahead of the upcoming Budget announcement, he urged for the complete removal of the two-child benefit cap, a topic still actively under debate within the government.
While Brown took the spotlight as the main speaker, another prominent figure from the Labour party, Angela Rayner, was present in the audience, garnering attention. Brown commended her, receiving applause from the audience, followed by acknowledgment from Alison McGovern, the Homelessness minister, for Rayner’s dedicated work within the government.
Following her abrupt exit from a key role in Keir Starmer’s government due to unresolved tax issues related to a coastal property, Rayner has maintained a low public profile. Despite her absence from Labour’s annual conference, she received a standing ovation from party members, with calls for her return echoing through the party.
It took over a month after her resignation for Rayner to make her first public statements. During a personal declaration in Parliament, she emphasized her commitment to championing important government initiatives. Notable among these are the recent passing of the Renters’ Rights Act and significant enhancements to workers’ rights through the Employment Rights Bill, which she defended in Parliament.
Although Rayner was not leading the child poverty task force, she closely monitored its progress during her time in government. Her attentive presence at Brown’s speech, a figure she views as a mentor and has shared a political alliance with for more than a decade, showcased her continued interest in the issue.
A close associate of Rayner affirmed to The Mirror, “This is a cause that Angela is deeply passionate about. She holds Gordon in high regard and is actively listening.” In 2020, Rayner strongly criticized the two-child benefit restriction as “inhuman.” While serving as Deputy PM, she supported the government’s stance on this policy from the previous Tory era, despite calls for its removal. If the government fails to meet Brown’s child poverty task force objectives, it is likely that Rayner will feel compelled to voice her concerns.