The Mayor of West Yorkshire has stated that eliminating the two-child benefit cap would provide vital assistance to working families struggling financially.
Tracy Brabin, representing the Labour Party, addressed these issues and others during a “Message the Mayor” segment on BBC Radio Leeds.
The discussion also encompassed the resumption of construction on the White Rose railway station in Leeds, her recent diplomatic trip to Brazil, and proposals for a tourism levy in Yorkshire.
Key highlights from the interview are summarized below. The full audio is available here.
“Circumstances may lead a family to have three children, but it’s unacceptable that this automatically equates to increased poverty. It’s truly shameful.”
“Alarmingly, in some West Yorkshire communities, child poverty rates reach 50%. How can these children seize economic opportunities when their lives begin so disadvantaged?”
Last week’s Budget included the removal of a provision limiting Universal Credit and tax credit claims to the first two children in a family.
“I view this Budget as potentially transformative, particularly in its empowerment of regional mayors.”
“Andy Burnham [Mayor of Greater Manchester] recently highlighted Greater Manchester’s economic growth surpassing the national average and even outstripping London. Remarkably, West Yorkshire ranked second.”
The post-Budget landscape will see an increase in “integrated” funding settlements for English regions. This model consolidates government funding into a single allocation, granting mayors greater autonomy in resource allocation.
Brabin also addressed proposed new powers that would enable the implementation of a modest charge for overnight visitors.
“I believe it’s equitable for visitors to contribute a small sum during their stay.”
“These funds would be reinvested in significant events and infrastructure improvements, such as enhanced bus services.”
“Mayor David Skaith of York and North Yorkshire could potentially allocate tens of millions to transportation projects, while West Yorkshire, with its 73 million annual visitors, could also benefit significantly.”
“We possess true gems like Ilkley, Shipley, and Haworth, and a modest investment could enhance the experience for everyone.”
“I am determined to resolve the White Rose station situation. The continued delay will only escalate costs.”
“The agreement predates my time as mayor, and frankly, we wouldn’t structure such a project in this manner again.”
Construction on the White Rose station in Leeds was suspended in 2024. The project is a collaborative venture between the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Munroe K, a private entity.
The mayor anticipates contractors returning by 2026, though she acknowledges that a firm commitment cannot be made at this time.
Brabin faced scrutiny on social media for attending a climate summit in Brazil, held in advance of the COP30 conference.
“I was invited by [former New York Mayor Michael] Bloomberg, alongside other mayors from across the globe, to discuss strategies for addressing the climate emergency.”
The mayor characterized the summit as a “valuable opportunity” to stimulate job creation within the climate economy, which she estimates to be worth £8 billion to the region.
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