Rachel Reeves to give speech preparing ground for budget tax rises – UK politics live

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to deliver a significant speech outlining the upcoming budget, where she will candidly address the tough choices regarding potential tax increases. While promising fairness and opportunity, she will not reaffirm Labour's previous commitment to not raise income tax, hinting at a possible shift in policy. This speech is crucial as it sets the tone for the government's financial strategy and could impact public perception and market reactions.

In a recent podcast, Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey dissect Nigel Farage's disappointing speech in the City of London, where he backtracked on his promise to cut £90 billion in taxes and failed to address the pensions triple lock. This retreat raises concerns about his commitment to fiscal responsibility and his focus on appealing to the wealthy. Meanwhile, Rachel Reeves is diligently working on the autumn budget, hinting at ongoing political maneuvering. This discussion is crucial as it highlights the shifting priorities in UK politics and the implications for taxpayers.

Recent revelations indicate that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer was informed about Peter Mandelson's connections to Jeffrey Epstein before appointing him as US ambassador. Civil servants disclosed that Starmer received a report outlining potential reputational risks, yet he was unaware of specific email contents prior to Prime Minister's Questions. This situation raises concerns about transparency and accountability in government appointments, highlighting the importance of thorough vetting processes for public officials.

In a recent pre-budget speech, Sir Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves hinted at potential tax increases that may be announced by the chancellor later this month. This news is significant as it suggests a shift in fiscal policy that could impact individuals and businesses alike, raising questions about the government's approach to economic recovery and public spending.

Oliver Steadman, a former Labour councillor, is facing serious legal troubles as he appears in court charged with one count of blackmail and five communication offences. This case raises significant concerns about the conduct of public officials and the implications of such allegations on public trust in political figures. It highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in governance.

Ryanair's CEO Michael O'Leary has expressed strong concerns about the UK economy under a potential Labour government, stating that tax cuts are essential for growth. This comes as Ryanair reports a significant 42% increase in profits for the first half of the year. O'Leary's comments highlight the ongoing debate about economic policies and their impact on business performance, making it crucial for voters to consider how political decisions can affect the economy.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan is urging Chancellor Rachel Reeves to present a budget that genuinely supports green investments. He believes that the government should remain committed to its principles and not yield to claims that pursuing net zero is detrimental to the cost of living. Khan's call comes just before a summit of world mayors in Rio de Janeiro, highlighting the importance of sustainable policies in addressing the UK's challenges.

Experts are warning that Rachel Reeves's proposal to cut the 5% VAT on electricity bills could backfire, primarily benefiting wealthier homeowners while potentially increasing carbon emissions. This move raises concerns about its impact on the UK's climate commitments, as critics argue that it may not effectively support those who need it most. The discussion around this tax cut highlights the ongoing debate about balancing financial relief with environmental responsibilities.

Rachel Reeves is set to deliver a significant speech at Downing Street, where she will candidly discuss the upcoming budget and the necessary tax rises to address the fiscal gap. This moment is crucial as it reflects the government's approach to economic challenges and sets the tone for future financial policies. The insights shared during this address could influence public perception and political dynamics as the Labour Party prepares for the budget announcement.

The seaside village of Portavogie is reeling after the tragic death of 28-year-old Jordan Webb, who was pronounced dead at the scene on Monday morning. This shocking incident has left the community in disbelief, highlighting the need for increased safety and support in the area.

Shein, the Asian e-commerce giant, is facing scrutiny as it cooperates with a French investigation into the sale of childlike sex dolls on its platform. The company's spokesperson, Quentin Ruffat, announced their readiness to share the identities of customers who purchased these controversial items before they were removed from sale. This situation raises significant concerns about child protection and the implications of such products being available online, highlighting the need for stricter regulations in e-commerce.

Ousmane Dembélé is set to play as Paris Saint-Germain prepares to host Bayern Munich in a crucial Champions League match. His return is significant as he was previously uncertain due to thigh discomfort, but now he adds strength to the squad. This match is pivotal for PSG as they aim to secure their position in the tournament, making Dembélé's presence even more important.

Kim Yong Nam, North Korea's former ceremonial head of state, has passed away at the age of 97, according to state media. His long tenure as head of parliament, lasting two decades, is notable in a political landscape often marked by purges. His ability to maintain this position suggests he navigated the complexities of North Korean politics by showing loyalty to the country's supreme leaders. This news is significant as it marks the end of an era for North Korean leadership and raises questions about the future political landscape in the country.

Zohran Mamdani, the New York mayoral candidate, made a strong statement at his final rally, promising to stand up against what he described as 'bullies' following a funding threat from President Donald Trump. This commitment resonates with voters who are looking for leadership that prioritizes community values over political intimidation. Mamdani's stance not only highlights the ongoing tensions in political funding but also emphasizes the importance of resilience in local governance.