Limit benefit to three children say the Tories

THE Tories have drawn up plans to limit child benefit to three children, it emerged last night.

The measure would slash millions of pounds from the welfare budget and some ministers argue that limiting payments would send an important message about personal responsibility. It could also deter some parents from having children they cannot afford. Sources told BBC Newsnight the Treasury was ‘softening’ to the idea and examining the details.

Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith is said to back a limit of only two children, but has failed to secure support from other ministers, including Chancellor George Osborne.

The suggestion that the benefit could be denied for a fourth and subsequent children is seen as a potential compromise. It could save an estimated £300 million a year, but it would take 18 years before the full savings would be realised because the rules would not apply to those who already have more than three children.

Asked about the reports by Sky News, Tory chairman Grant Shapps backed the principle that people should ‘take responsibility’ for their families. He also appeared to hint the measure could be included in either the Budget or the Tory manifesto.