Rachel Reeves faces a referral to government ethics officials after Nigel Farage alleged she misled the public about the size of the fiscal gap used to justify tax rises. He says forecasts don’t back her headroom claims; the Treasury says its figures reflect OBR assessments.

Rachel Reeves faces intense pressure after being accused of misleading the public about a £30bn fiscal hole used to justify tax rises. The OBR is said to have told her no such gap existed. Critics demand her resignation; allies insist the Budget case remains sound.

Starmer has shelved Angela Rayner’s flagship employment rights package, breaking a manifesto pledge and prompting anger among Labour backbenchers. No 10 says small firms need flexibility; unions and MPs argue promised worker protections are being abandoned.

The Chancellor’s Budget pulls millions into the higher rate through frozen thresholds and adds measures on property, pensions and savings. Welfare spending is projected to near £400bn over five years. Ministers say it funds services; critics argue it breaks earlier pledges.