Today in Focus NHS, houses, nuclear submarines: Labour sets out its spending plans
Jun 12, 2025
Heather Stewart, the Economics editor for The Guardian, dives into the UK government's recent spending review and its implications. She discusses the ambitious £39 billion investment plan aimed at improving the lives of working individuals. The conversation highlights funding for critical sectors like nuclear power and healthcare, and how these investments may shift fiscal priorities. Stewart also examines the contrasting public perceptions of Labour's proposals amid economic challenges, revealing a landscape filled with both promise and uncertainty for future voters.
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Spending Review vs Budget
- A spending review details the government's planned allocation of funds over three years, distinct from the budget, which focuses on taxes and overall fiscal policy.
- Labour committed to one budget a year, with the spending review outlining precise departmental spending within that budget envelope.
Ed Miliband's Department Wins Big
- Ed Miliband's department, Energy, Security and Net Zero, received a significant 16% funding increase, marking him as a clear winner.
- This is notable given internal government speculation about his status and Labour's trust in this policy area.
NHS Priority for Labour
- Labour prioritizes fixing the NHS, believing it's key to winning the next election.
- Health spending sees a 2.8% real-terms rise, including investment in digital technology for patient services.