‘Rape clause’ resolution

Stirling Council’s leader has stepped into the row over the socalled “rape clause”.

SNP councillor Scott Farmer has proposed a resolution to local government body COSLA, establishing a national position on the two-child limit for child tax credit – subsequently dubbed the “rape clause”

The policy was introduced by the Tory UK Government and critics say it means a woman has to prove she has been raped in order to receive welfare support for a third child.

Powers over Child Tax Credits are to remain reserved to the Westminster Parliament despite some controls over welfare being devolved to Holyrood.

The resolution, proposed by Councillor Farmer and backed on a cross-party basis, was opposed by the Tories. It established COSLA’s opposition to the two-child policy and rape clause.

Councillor Farmer said: “It was important that COSLA take a position on this matter as the body has a role to play given that health and social work is responsible for applying the Tory-imposed policy.

“The two-child limit on Child Tax Credit is a unnecessary attack on poorer families and the subsequent rape clause is indicative of a sickening attitude from the Tory UK Government towards vulnerable women who are victims of rape.”

A Scottish Conservative spokesperson said, however: “If one accepts there should be a limit to the number of children that qualify for tax credits then it is only right there are exceptions on the number of children that qualify for tax credits and is especially sensitive when a child is conceived without the consent of the mother.

“Telling a health care professional, in confidence, that this is the case enables them to ensure the necessary support is available.

“The Scottish Government have the opportunity to change this if they should wish to do so due with the powers they have.

“It is unfortunate that this sensitive issue is being politicised, often with inappropriate language.”