OBR challenges claims Reeves dropped income tax rise due to rosier forecasts

Downing Street has dismissed claims that Chancellor Rachel Reeves misled the public regarding the necessity for tax increases in her recent budget, following revelations from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) that indicated Reeves was not at risk of breaching her fiscal rules despite a downgrade in productivity forecasts. The OBR's chair, Richard Hughes, provided details to the Commons Treasury committee about assessments sent to the Treasury prior to the budget announcement.

Arne Slot, the head coach of Liverpool, has expressed his determination to continue leading the team despite a challenging period marked by a series of defeats, including a recent 3-0 loss to Nottingham Forest and a 4-1 defeat to PSV Eindhoven. Following a meeting with sporting director Richard Hughes, Slot emphasized that he still has the backing of the club's hierarchy.

The chair of the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), Richard Hughes, expressed his mortification over the early release of budget forecasts, which was attributed to a technical error. An inquiry has been initiated to investigate how the documents were inadvertently made accessible before the official announcement by Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a budget that includes a £26 billion tax increase and the scrapping of the two-child benefit cap, aiming to address the UK's cost of living crisis. However, the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) has warned that this strategy may be 'fiscal fiction', as it delays the financial impact until just before the next general election in 2029.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has presented the UK Budget for 2025, which includes a £26 billion tax increase and increased welfare spending aimed at addressing the ongoing cost of living crisis. This budget is a significant move for the Labour government as it seeks to balance fiscal responsibility with the needs of citizens facing economic challenges.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced the removal of tax breaks on insurance and advance payments for high-end Motability cars as part of the recent UK budget. This decision has sparked concerns among users of the Motability scheme, who feel judged for their vehicle choices amidst rising living costs.

The National Union of Students (NUS) has raised concerns over a three-year freeze on the student loan repayment threshold, set to remain at £29,385 starting April 2027. This decision could force graduates in low-paid jobs to repay their loans sooner, potentially impacting their ability to manage essential living costs such as food and rent.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a budget that includes a £26 billion tax increase and the scrapping of the two-child benefit cap, which she described as a long-standing ambition. Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the budget, asserting that it adheres to the Labour Party's manifesto commitments despite the significant tax rises aimed at addressing the UK's cost of living crisis.