Keir Starmer Faces Criticism Over Budget and Economic Policies in Heated PMQs

The Prime Minister defends his government's fiscal strategy as opposition leader Kemi Badenoch raises concerns about tax pledges, EV mandates, and job losses.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer declined to repeat Chancellor Rachel Reeves' pledge of no further tax hikes or borrowing, stating he would not outline future budgets at the despatch box.
Kemi Badenoch, Conservative Party leader, criticized Labour's economic policies, highlighting potential job losses at Vauxhall's Luton plant due to the UK's zero-emission vehicle mandate.
The Labour government defended its recent Budget, emphasizing efforts to stabilize public finances and invest in public services while dismissing opposition claims of economic mismanagement.
Economic analysts suggest that Labour’s ambitious spending plans may necessitate future tax increases or borrowing, despite Reeves' assurances to the contrary.
Businesses have expressed concerns over Labour's fiscal approach, including a £26 billion annual increase in National Insurance, questioning the government's commitment to fostering growth.