SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP has voiced her strong support for the removal of the two-child welfare cap, following the second reading of the Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill in the House of Commons.

The legislation, which moved a step closer to becoming law, seeks to repeal a policy that restricts additional Universal Credit support to the first two children in most households. The SDLP has been a long-standing opponent of the cap, which they argue has been a primary driver of child poverty since its introduction.

South Belfast and Mid Down MP Claire Hanna said: "From the moment this damaging policy was introduced by the Tories, the SDLP has campaigned for its removal. We warned of the harm it would cause when it was extended to Northern Ireland and lifting it has the potential to help over 50,000 households. "This policy has pushed more children into poverty, penalised families and piled extra pressure on some of the poorest households. The costs to the public purse, in addressing the long term impact of poverty in childhood, are far higher than the cost of this support."

The SDLP has consistently pushed for this change across all levels of government, including Westminster, Stormont, and local councils. The party argues that the removal of the limit is a vital step in repairing the social security safety net.

Ms. Hanna concluded: "The SDLP has consistently argued for the removal of the two-child limit at Westminster, in Stormont and in councils across Northern Ireland. I welcome this progress and hope it will help lift children out of poverty and provide real support for the families who need it most."

The Bill passed its second reading with a significant majority (455 to 104) and is expected to see the cap officially lifted by April 2026.