Chancellor Reeves, before announcing the £26 billion tax increases on November 26th, stated that she met with the Prime Minister two to three times a week to discuss her financial plans, and that the tax increases were approved by Prime Minister Starmer. Explaining that the final package was decided upon together with the Labour Party leadership, Ms. Reeves essentially stated that the decision to raise taxes was not hers, but Starmer’s.
Naturally, there was no possibility of a package being announced without Prime Minister Starmer’s approval. The entire responsibility for the package actually rests on Starmer’s shoulders. But he threw Rachel Reeves to the wolves and is simply watching.
The truth that emerged from the Chancellor’s latest statements is that she did not actually control the package, that it did not reflect her own views, and that it was prepared with her so-called team. Ultimately, both she and Starmer broke their pre-election promise that “taxes will not increase.” Clearly, they lied to win the public vote. Starmer is primarily responsible for the continued worsening of the problems.
Even if he tries to escape, he really can’t get away.