Gordon Brown urges UK to end two-child benefit cap by taxing gambling, citing child poverty as a major economic threat.

Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown has warned that child poverty is the nation’s greatest threat to long-term economic stability and a “shameful epidemic,” urging Chancellor Rachel Reeves to raise gambling taxes to generate £3.2 billion to end the two-child benefit cap. The policy, limiting child tax credits and universal credit to two children, is under scrutiny, with campaigners and experts arguing only full abolition—costing £3–3.5 billion by 2029/30—would effectively lift 500,000 children out of poverty. Polling shows 64% public support for higher gambling taxes if funds reduce child poverty. Brown is pushing for a permanent, cross-party anti-poverty alliance. While the government has delayed its strategy and considers partial reforms, officials have signaled potential changes in the upcoming Budget, though experts maintain only full repeal will deliver meaningful impact. The government has committed £500 million in new funding.