Gordon Brown has been a vocal advocate for addressing child poverty for a significant period. His efforts during the previous Labour administration to combat this issue are often highlighted by ministers in Keir Starmer’s government as a testament to the impact a Labour government can have. The current number of children living in poverty stands at approximately 4.5 million, reaching a 60-year peak, prompting the former Labour Prime Minister to address the issue.
In a heartfelt speech today, commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Child Poverty Action Group, Brown referred to child poverty as a “stain on the conscience of our nation.” Just ahead of the upcoming Budget, he called for the complete elimination of the two-child benefit cap, an ongoing topic of discussion within the government.
While Brown took the spotlight as the main speaker, another prominent figure within the Labour Party, Angela Rayner, was present in the audience, garnering attention with her attendance. Brown commended her, leading to applause from the audience, followed by acknowledgment from Alison McGovern, the Homelessness minister, praising Rayner’s dedication in government.
Despite Rayner’s recent departure from a central role in Keir Starmer’s government due to unresolved tax issues related to a seaside property, she has made limited public appearances. Notably absent from the Labour party’s annual conference, she still managed to receive a standing ovation from party supporters, with calls for her return echoing among party members.
It took over a month after her resignation for Rayner to make her first public statements. In a personal address in the Commons, she affirmed her commitment to championing and defending causes that are important to her during her time in government, such as the Renters’ Rights Act, recently enacted into law, and substantial enhancements to workers’ rights under the Employment Rights Bill, a topic she defended in the Commons just this week.
Although Rayner did not lead the child poverty task force, she displayed a keen interest in its progression during her tenure in government. This interest was evident as she attentively listened to Gordon Brown, whom she considers a mentor and has had a close political relationship with for more than a decade.
A close associate of Rayner shared with The Mirror: “This issue is deeply meaningful to Angela. She holds Gordon in high regard and is actively engaged in listening and learning.” In 2020, Rayner criticized the two-child benefit restriction as “inhumane.” While serving as Deputy PM, she adhered to the government’s stance on the policy despite calls for its abolition. However, if the government falls short of Brown’s aspirations for the child poverty task force, it would not be surprising if Rayner feels compelled to voice her concerns.