Gordon Brown has been a vocal advocate for addressing child poverty for a long time. During his tenure in the previous Labour government, efforts to tackle this issue were highlighted as a benchmark for potential impact by current government officials under Keir Starmer. However, with approximately 4.5 million children living in poverty, the highest number in 60 years, it is understandable why the former Prime Minister is motivated to speak out.
In a passionate address today, commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Child Poverty Action Group, Brown labeled child poverty as a “blemish on the conscience of our nation.” Just weeks before the upcoming Budget announcement, he called for the complete elimination of the two-child benefit restriction, a topic still under active 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, attracting significant attention. Brown commended her, the audience applauded, and Homelessness minister Alison McGovern praised Rayner’s diligent work within the government.
Following her sudden exit from a prominent role in Keir Starmer’s administration due to tax issues related to a property, Rayner has maintained a low public profile. Despite her absence from the Labour annual conference, she managed to receive a standing ovation from party supporters, with calls for her return echoing among members like Wes Streeting.
It took over a month post-resignation for Rayner to make her initial public statements. In her address at the Commons, she affirmed her commitment to advocating for key governmental issues close to her heart. Notable among these are the recent enactment of the Renters’ Rights Act and significant enhancements to workers’ rights through the Employment Rights Bill, a cause she defended in the Commons recently.
Although she was not leading the child poverty task force, Rayner displayed a keen interest in its advancements during her time in government. This was evident as she attentively listened to Brown, whom she considers a mentor and has shared a political alliance with for more than a decade.
A close associate of Rayner shared with The Mirror: “This is a cause that Angela deeply cares about. She holds Gordon in high regard and is actively engaged in listening and learning.” In 2020, Rayner condemned the two-child benefit limit as “inhumane.” While serving as the Deputy PM, she adhered to the government’s stance on the policy despite calls for its abolishment. However, if the government fails to meet Brown’s aspirations for the child poverty task force, it wouldn’t be surprising if Rayner feels compelled to voice her concerns.
