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Scottish budget vows to scrap two-child benefits cap

The Scottish Budget, as outlined in the article from Morning Star Online, includes a commitment to scrap the two-child benefits cap, a policy that restricts child tax credit and universal credit to the first two children in a family. This decision by the Scottish Government, led by the SNP, aims to address child poverty, with Finance Secretary Shona Robison emphasizing the need for a "just and fair society." The budget also proposes a new tax band for higher earners, increased funding for the Scottish Child Payment, and investments in public services like the NHS, housing, and social security. Despite these progressive measures, the budget faces challenges due to a £1.5 billion shortfall, attributed to inflation and UK Government austerity measures. The article also notes criticism from opposition parties, with the Scottish Greens calling for more ambitious action against poverty, and the Scottish Tories arguing that the budget's tax hikes could deter investment.

Read the Full Morning Star Article at:
[ https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/scottish-budget-vows-to-scrap-two-child-benefits-cap ]