Chancellor Rachel Reeves has pledged to put working families at the heart of her Autumn Budget, vowing to tackle the soaring cost of living, reduce NHS waiting times, and cut national debt.
Budget Priorities for Working People
In comments directed at the public, Ms Reeves stated that the economy is currently failing working people. She committed to using the budget to "grip the cost of living" and build a fairer Britain. "Working families will be at the front of my mind as I set out how we will cut NHS waiting lists, cut national debt and cut the cost of living," she told The Mirror, describing these as the nation's top priorities.
The budget, scheduled for Wednesday 26 November, is set to build on existing government efforts. These include work already underway to reduce NHS waiting lists, the extension of a freeze on prescription charges, and the national rollout of breakfast clubs.
Key Measures and Fiscal Challenges
A key confirmed measure is the freeze on the cost of a single prescription at £9.90, a move the Treasury says will save patients approximately £12 million next year.
In a push for workplace fairness, the budget will also introduce a policy to regularly name and shame employers who break national minimum wage laws. A Treasury source emphasised the government's stance, stating, "We are sending a clear message - those who short change their staff will not be allowed to hide."
However, the Chancellor faces significant fiscal headwinds. Official figures released on Friday revealed a blow, showing that government borrowing in October was £3 billion higher than forecast by the Office for Budget Responsibility. To bridge a multi-billion-pound spending gap and meet her fiscal rules, Ms Reeves is widely expected to raise levies in the upcoming announcement.
Broader Government Stance
While the government appears to have stepped back from reported plans to increase income tax, it is anticipated to seek revenue through other means. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has insisted that this second Budget will reflect "Labour values" and be "based on fairness," prioritising the protection of public services like the NHS.
Ms Reeves also stressed the importance of cutting the national debt, arguing there is "nothing progressive" about spending £1 in every £10 on debt interest. She reiterated that these funds should be redirected into schools, hospitals, and police services.
Further announcements are expected, including a plan to boost the number of planners to support national housebuilding, an initiative first raised the previous year.
