SNP MP slams 'Blairite' Labour over benefits policies that could cause 'real harm'

dailyrecord.co.uk:

An SNP MP has hit out at Labour's new "Blairite" Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary over the party's welfare policies.David Linden has written to Liz Kendall about his "concerns" over Labour's plans for benefits.Labour leader Keir Starmer has come under fire in recent months for refusing to commit to scrapping the two-child benefit cap or the bedroom tax if he wins the next general election.Labour has also refused to devolve employment law to the Scottish Parliament.

It comes after Glasgow East MP Linden mocked Labour's shadow cabinet reshuffle as "Blairism on steroids".Linden, SNP social justice spokesperson, said in his letter that he was "concerned that under Sir Keir Starmer's leadership, the Labour party is intent on mirroring current Tory Government policies that risk imposing real harm on people who interact with the UK's social security system."Doubling down on policies such as the two-child cap and associated rape clause; refusing to commit to abolishing the Tory bedroom tax; committing to a pro-Brexit policy position; and ruling out the devolution of employment law are all policies that bring the Labour party ever closer to the current Conservative Government's position."He added: "I know that you will be aware of the devastating impact that the ongoing cost of living crisis is having on our constituents.

Far too many people having to make difficult financial decisions when faced with skyrocketing bills. Now more than ever it is important to tackle poverty in our communities and support people within them. "I would appreciate if you could clarify your position on each of the aforementioned policy areas and whether you believe that Labour's current social security commitments are adequate in relieving people