Scottish Budget Pledges to Mitigate Two-Child Benefit Cap by 2026

The SNP's draft budget includes measures aimed at reducing child poverty, but faces criticism over feasibility and economic growth concerns.

The Scottish Government's draft budget proposes mitigating the two-child benefit cap, with implementation targeted before the 2026 financial year, pending UK Government data sharing.
Finance Secretary Shona Robison estimates the policy will cost £100-150 million annually, with funding details to be finalized in the next budget cycle.
Critics, including Scottish Labour, argue the budget is politically motivated ahead of the 2026 Holyrood elections and lacks a clear strategy to address slow economic growth.
First Minister John Swinney emphasized the SNP's commitment to tackling child poverty but faces skepticism over the timeline and deliverability of the proposed welfare changes.
Polling suggests the budget has bolstered SNP support and pro-independence sentiment, but opposition parties remain divided over its long-term impact on Scotland's economy and public services.