Calls for Westminster to re-think on ‘rape clause’
THE Scottish Government could instigate an informal boycott of the so-called rape clause and has called on the UK Government to “think again”.
Health Secretary Shona Robison has written to the UK Government to say the Scottish Government will not pass on Whitehall guidance on carrying out the policy to NHS Scotland.
The rule, part of changes to the benefits system, requires those claiming tax credits for a third or subsequent child to prove they became pregnant as a result of an attack or while in a coercive relationship in order to qualify.
A professional third party, such as an NHS worker, rape charity staff, social worker or police officer, would have to be convinced the claim was legitimate to fill out the exemption form.
Ms Robison wrote to Employment Minister Damian Hinds and Treasury Secretary David Gauke, urging a re- think of the policy and outlining the boycott.
She wrote: “As I am sure you are aware, the Scottish Government is deeply opposed to the policy to limit support to two children and to the exemption which requires a woman to prove she was raped.
“We believe this will both traumatise women who have been raped and have a negative impact on their children. We consider this approach to be a violation of human rights.”
The policy has sparked a political row in Scotland.
It led to a protest in Glasgow last week, attended by around 300 people. Charities including Rape Crisis Scotland and Scottish Women’s Aid said they would not co-operate with the clause.
Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson has said she supports the exemptions the UK Government has put in place on restrictions to child tax credits, saying she wants to see ministers “implement them in the most compassionate way possible”.
A DWP spokeswoman said: “This exception is crucial to protect women who are faced with very difficult circumstances. This reform ensures people on benefits have to make the same choices as those supporting themselves solely through work.”