Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has accused Chancellor Jeremy Hunt of concealing planned tax rises in the upcoming Autumn Budget, warning that the government is preparing to impose 'stealth taxes' on British households.
Speaking ahead of the fiscal announcement, Starmer claimed that Hunt and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak are deliberately avoiding transparency about future tax increases, which could significantly impact family finances.
'Hidden in the Small Print'
Starmer argued that while the government may avoid immediate tax hikes in the Autumn Statement, the real burden will emerge later through frozen tax thresholds and other indirect measures. 'The truth is hidden in the small print,' the Labour leader stated.
Fiscal Drag Concerns
Economists have warned that maintaining current tax thresholds while inflation remains high could pull millions into higher tax brackets - a phenomenon known as 'fiscal drag.' Starmer emphasised this risk, suggesting it amounts to a backdoor tax increase on working people.
Political Battle Lines Drawn
The accusation sets the stage for a political showdown over economic policy, with Labour positioning itself as the party of fiscal responsibility and transparency. The Conservatives maintain their approach balances economic stability with necessary public spending.
As both parties prepare for the next general election, the debate over taxation and public finances is likely to dominate political discourse in coming months.
