I research poverty in the UK – the two-child benefit limit is causing real and lasting harm

The first king’s speech of the new Labour government set out a wide-ranging legislative programme. There was lots to welcome, such as a new deal for workers and a child wellbeing bill. But there were also some very notable absences.

Most significantly, there was almost nothing on social security and the government has not, as yet, committed to getting rid of the poverty-producing and harmful two-child limit on benefits.

The two-child limit restricts means-tested...