Greens slam two child limit
Greens today branded as "shocking" new statistics that show the extent of impact of child limits to Tax Credits in Scotland.
The new figures show that, at 2 April, more than 8,000 families were hit by the cut. The Institute for Fiscal Studies estimates that families can lose up to £3,000 a year or 10% of average income.
The controversial 'rape clause' which provides an exemption to the limit in cases of consensual conception applies to 50 families in Scotland.
Alison Johnstone MSP, Scottish Greens Social Security Spokesperson, said:
"These new figurers are deeply shocking, but not surprising.
"8000 families needing help with their income are instead having thousands taken from them by a fundamentally heartless UK Government.
"The social security system should be based on need, not arbitrary limits. If a child is brought into the world, society has a duty to help the parents to support them financially and ensure they grow-up free from poverty.
"I am also deeply concerned by the news that 50 women have been put through a potentially traumatising process.
"If we are to call ourselves a caring, civilised country, the rape clause and the two child limit should be scrapped with immediate effect."