A make-or-break budget: inside the Treasury before Labour’s crucial day

The UK government has announced a freeze on rail fares in England for 2026, marking the first such measure in 30 years. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to confirm this decision in her upcoming budget speech, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on commuters and support economic growth amid rising living costs.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to introduce a pay-per-mile charge for electric vehicles (EVs) in the upcoming budget, a significant shift in Britain's approach to road pricing. This proposal aims to address the urgent need for new road taxes while raising concerns about its potential impact on the transition from petrol vehicles to EVs.

The UK government borrowed nearly £10 billion more than expected in the year leading up to October, with total borrowing reaching £17.4 billion last month, according to the Office for National Statistics. This data comes just ahead of Chancellor Rachel Reeves's upcoming budget statement, prompting calls for her to create more fiscal headroom against her fiscal rules.

Rachel Reeves, the UK's first female chancellor, expressed her frustration with individuals 'mansplaining' her role as she prepares to present her budget next week. In an interview, she highlighted the pressures of her position amid ongoing political scrutiny and attacks.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to announce an increase in duties for gambling firms, including bookies and casinos, during the upcoming budget. This decision follows months of speculation and lobbying efforts from the gambling industry aimed at influencing government policy. The proposed changes are anticipated to have significant financial implications for these companies.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is preparing to unveil her second Autumn Budget amid a struggling economy, with tax increases anticipated. Analysts are closely monitoring the situation as the budget announcement approaches, expected to include significant fiscal measures.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has been urged to initiate a comprehensive revaluation of council tax in England ahead of the upcoming budget, with plans to update the valuations of homes in the top three council tax bands. This move comes as the current council tax system, based on 1991 valuations, has been criticized for its inequities, particularly affecting households in less affluent areas compared to wealthier regions.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to announce a £1.7 billion plan for the extension of the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Thamesmead, one of London's most deprived areas. This funding aims to improve connectivity and is expected to facilitate the development of thousands of new homes in the region. The announcement is anticipated during the upcoming budget presentation next week.