THE benefits of nearly 18,000 families in Scotland are being cut by Westminster because they have more than two children, new figures show.

Statistics released by the Department for Work and Pensions today show that the number of Scottish households hit by the two-child limit on allowances has risen by 34 per cent, with 17,830 families now losing out on nearly £3,000.

Across Britain, 318,000 families, including 1.1 million children, were affected by the two-child limit as of April 2.

The policy, introduced in 2017, means that child tax credits or the universal credit equivalent are not paid to households in respect of a third child and any subsequent children, resulting in losses of up to £2,845.

The data also shows that 100 Scots had to declare their child as non-consensually conceived in order to get their payment — a policy known as the “rape clause.”

The Scottish Greens called on Holyrood to guarantee protection from the two-child limit. 

Scottish Greens social security spokeswoman Maggie Chapman MSP said: “Today’s figures show just how far the UK government has distorted our social security system.

“The UK government must end these cruel policies now.”

A Tory government spokesman said the policy ensured fairness and that it provided a “comprehensive childcare offer.”