The PM says he will pursue closer ties with the EU, arguing the current trade deal has harmed growth. He signalled plans to improve trade and cooperation with Brussels and suggested parts of the agreement could be revised, while defending his Chancellor amid pressure over the economy.
Rachel Reeves is under pressure after OBR chair Richard Hughes was pushed out just before he was due to give Budget evidence to MPs. Critics accuse the Treasury of silencing scrutiny after an internal row; ministers deny interference. MPs from across parties want full transparency and his testimony.
OBR chair Richard Hughes has been forced out after a clash with the Treasury. An accidental Budget leak and a timeline he released appeared to contradict the Chancellor’s account of a funding gap. Relations collapsed after the watchdog declined to give full advance sight of its inquiry.
OBR chair Richard Hughes has resigned after an inquiry found the watchdog mishandled sensitive data, leading to the early release of a budget document. Accepting responsibility, he stepped down as scrutiny grows over protections for fiscal information and the government’s handling of the episode.
OBR chair Richard Hughes has quit after a review concluded a Budget leak resulted from failings in the watchdog’s leadership, with a similar error at the Spring Statement. The episode heightens tension with the Treasury as ministers consider tightening OBR protocols.
The PM insisted no one was misled about a Budget shortfall, defending the chancellor against claims she failed to disclose OBR data showing stronger tax receipts before announcing £26bn of rises. He said the fiscal plan remains credible.