Keir Starmer refuses to say if he stands by pledge not to raise taxes

"From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging."

"Sir Keir Starmer has declined to say whether he will stick to his manifesto promise not to raise taxes, fuelling speculation that the government will row back on the pledge at next month's Budget. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch asked the prime minister on Wednesday whether he stuck by his pledge not to raise income tax, national insurance or VAT. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is facing the prospect of tax rises or spending cuts as she looks to balance the books at the November Budget."

"Answering Ms Badenoch during Prime Minister's Questions, the PM pointed to some economic figures, before saying that the Budget is on 26 November and we will lay out our plans. He added: But I can tell the House now that we will build a stronger economy, we will cut NHS waiting lists and deliver a better future for our country."

The Independent covers reproductive rights, climate change, and Big Tech with on-the-ground journalism and investigative projects such as the documentary 'The A Word'. The outlet solicits donations to fund reporters and avoids paywalls, arguing that quality journalism should be available to everyone and paid for by those who can afford it. Sir Keir Starmer declined to say whether he will stick to his manifesto promise not to raise taxes, prompting speculation of a reversal at next month's Budget. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch pressed him on income tax, national insurance and VAT. Chancellor Rachel Reeves faces potential tax rises or spending cuts to balance the November Budget, while the Prime Minister pledged economic strengthening and NHS waiting-list reductions ahead of the 26 November Budget.

Read at www.independent.co.uk