Starmer Stands Firm Amid Treasury Turmoil

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended his Treasury chief, Rachel Reeves, from opposition allegations of misleading the public about public finances before the latest budget. Reeves had indicated a potential rise in income tax, but reversed following favorable financial forecasts. Opposition parties demand investigation into possible misconduct.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has come to the defense of Treasury chief Rachel Reeves amid claims from opposition parties that she misled the public and markets concerning public finances prior to the recent budget announcement.

Starmer assured that there was no deception tied to Chancellor Reeves' tax-increasing budget, designed to mitigate government borrowing, enhance infrastructure, and spur economic growth. Despite initially signaling an income tax hike, Reeves shifted strategy due to a more optimistic fiscal forecast.

Calls for investigations linger as opposition parties suspect preemptive knowledge of favorable projections. Reeves maintained transparency, acknowledging downgraded productivity forecasts but reiterating the need for fiscal measures.

(With inputs from agencies.)