Reform UK Treasury spokesman Robert Jenrick has accused Prime Minister-elect Andy Burnham of planning £38 billion in new tax rises, claiming the incoming Labour leader has no mandate for such measures. Writing in the Daily Express, Jenrick criticised Burnham for avoiding scrutiny ahead of his move into 10 Downing Street on Monday.
Burnham Accused of Dodging Scrutiny
Jenrick stated that Burnham has been "dodging scrutiny like the plague," rarely appearing in public except for daily runs and banning journalists from asking questions during his one campaign speech. "It doesn’t inspire confidence that he is a strong leader with a plan to turn our country around," Jenrick wrote.
Record of Tax Hikes
Reform UK reviewed Burnham's political career and identified over £38 billion in proposed or supported tax increases. These include a death tax on family homes, a graduate tax on young workers, a £14 billion raid on savings and investments, and new taxes on workplace parking and weekend getaways. Jenrick noted that Burnham performed five U-turns during his by-election campaign, making Keir Starmer look stable by comparison.
Combined Tax Burden Could Exceed £100 Billion
Jenrick warned that combined with the £66 billion in tax rises already implemented by Rachel Reeves, Labour could impose over £100 billion in higher taxes by the next election. "That amounts to £3,450 per family – eyewatering stuff," he said, adding that this comes at a time when the tax burden is at a post-war record and families are struggling with rising bills.
Reform UK's Summer Campaign
Reform UK has launched a summer campaign to stop Burnham's tax rises, demanding he rule out each of the 10 measures he has previously supported. "He has no mandate to impose them on the British people," Jenrick asserted. "Express readers can be reassured that Reform UK will always take the side of those who have worked hard and done the right thing."
