
The News Agents Is the Chancellor about to break her manifesto promise?
44 snips
Nov 4, 2025 Helen Miller, Director at the Institute for Fiscal Studies, sheds light on the Chancellor's recent speech, which left many in the dark about potential tax changes. She discusses the importance of tax structure reform over simple rate increases and argues for fairer housing taxes. Miller critiques the idea of a flat tax and supports ending the triple lock on pensions. She emphasizes the need for thoughtful reforms over drastic changes, while warning that abolishing stamp duty alone could lead to unintended consequences.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Speech Without Substance
- Rachel Reeves delivered a rare pre-budget speech but provided no concrete tax or policy details.
- Hosts argued the speech created confusion rather than clarity about upcoming fiscal choices.
Signalling Instead Of Statements
- Reeves avoided confirming or ruling out tax rises, leaving journalists to infer intent.
- Hosts said that indirect signalling is a poor way to communicate with the public and markets.
Manifesto Pledge At Risk
- Hosts suggested Labour may be preparing to break manifesto pledges on taxes due to fiscal pressure.
- They warned breaking pledges risks long-term political trust and fuels populist narratives.
