Rape Clause rally planned one year on from introduction of controversial tax credit policy

Campaigners protesting against the ‘rape clause’ in Glasgow’s George Square last year (Jane Barlow/PA)

A PROTEST has been planned in Edinburgh one year after the introduction of the two-child benefit policy.

In April 2017 the UK government limited child tax credit to the first two children in a family.

The clause contains an exemption where the mother can claim for a further child if it was a result of ‘non-consensual conception’.

The move was met with outcry from women’s groups and opposition MPs.

The #rapeclause really is one of the most disgraceful policies ever introduced. We must all continue to oppose. https://t.co/A67WjAg5pW

— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) April 6, 2017

A ‘Scrap the Rape Clause’ demonstration is planned for Thursday 19th April in Scotland’s capital.

A statement on the event description says: “That we have a situation in 21st century Britain where a woman are forced to choose between disclosing rape – potentially for the very first time – and poverty is a disgrace.”

In speech last week, Labour MSP Kezia Dugdale condemned the ‘sickening’ policy.

She said: “On the first anniversary of the abhorrent rape clause, we should all reflect on the heart-breaking reality of this Conservative policy.”

Hope the Rape Clause has a miserable 1st Birthday ?- sick to my stomach this abhorrent policy still exists https://t.co/DgKIOCwRoZ

— Kezia Dugdale MSP (@kezdugdale) April 6, 2018

SNP MP Alison Thewliss said: “One year on from its introduction, serious problems remain about the impact of the two-child policy and rape clause on vulnerable women and children.

“I’ve continued to ask questions, but ministers haven’t given me any answers, or reassurance or justification that this policy is either workable or necessary.”