Gordon Brown has been a longstanding advocate for addressing child poverty. His efforts during his tenure in the previous Labour government to combat this issue are frequently highlighted by members of Keir Starmer’s administration as a testament to the impact a Labour government can have. The current number of children living in poverty, which stands at approximately 4.5 million – the highest in 60 years, underscores the urgency of the situation, prompting the former Prime Minister to speak out.
In a compelling address today commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Child Poverty Action Group, Brown characterized child poverty as a “deeply troubling problem within our society.” Just ahead of the upcoming Budget announcement, he called for the complete elimination of the two-child benefit restriction, a topic that remains actively debated within the government.
While Brown took the spotlight as the main speaker, the presence of another prominent Labour figure, Angela Rayner, in the audience did not go unnoticed. Brown commended her, and the audience responded with applause. Homelessness minister Alison McGovern also praised Rayner for her dedication and hard work while in government.
Following her unexpected exit from a prominent position in Keir Starmer’s government due to tax issues related to a seaside property, Rayner has maintained a low profile. Despite her absence at the Labour party’s annual conference, she received a standing ovation from party loyalists, with calls for her return echoing from within the ranks.
Rayner remained silent for over a month after stepping down before making her first public statement. She affirmed her commitment to advocating for important causes and defending her work within the government, including recent achievements such as the Renters’ Rights Act and the advancements made in workers’ rights under the Employment Rights Bill, which she defended in the Commons.
Although she was not leading the child poverty task force, it is evident that Rayner closely followed its developments during her time in government. Her attendance at Brown’s speech, someone she views as a mentor and has had a close political relationship with for more than a decade, further underscores her commitment to the cause.
An associate of the former Deputy PM shared with The Mirror: “Angela holds this issue close to her heart. She deeply admires Gordon, and she is paying close attention.” In 2020, Rayner strongly criticized the two-child benefit restriction as “inhumane.” While in her previous role, despite supporting the government’s stance on the policy, she faced pressure to push for its removal. If the government falls short of Brown’s aspirations for the child poverty task force, Rayner may find herself compelled to advocate for change.