Labour Leader Refuses to Commit to Lowering Taxes
Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, has declined to pledge an end to stealth tax raids on workers, despite criticizing the Tories for it. When questioned about the possibility of cutting income tax thresholds, Sir Keir not only ruled it out but downplayed the idea. During a speech in Bristol, he stated that he was "ready" to take on Rishi Sunak in the upcoming election but faced inquiries regarding his party's policies. Although speculation has grown about potential income tax cuts in Labour's manifesto, Sir Keir emphasized the need to focus on growing the economy before addressing tax issues. He did express a desire for lower taxes on working people, but any tax adjustments would need to be fair and affordable. The Labour leader also acknowledged that the tax burden is currently at its highest point since World War II and emphasized the importance of not increasing it further, except in specific areas that the party has identified as necessary.
Potential Scaling Back of Green Energy Investment
In addition to tax policies, Sir Keir addressed Labour's £28 billion annual green energy investment plan. He conceded that this commitment might be scaled back based on the economic situation but criticized the Tories for their attacks on the plan as "misconceived." Originally, Labour had promised to invest £28 billion per year until 2030 in green projects if they came to power. However, Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated last year that this figure would be a target to work towards in the second half of a first parliamentary term. Sir Keir's comments suggest a potential flexibility in Labour's approach to green energy investment.
