Reeves Rejects Claims of Misleading Public on Budget Revenue Needs
London – Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves has firmly denied accusations that she misled the public regarding revenue requirements in the lead-up to the recent budget, as a political row continues over the economic forecasts underpinning Labor’s plans. the dispute, ignited by criticism from Cabinet Minister Kemi Badenoch, centers on Reeves’ presentation of the need to raise significant revenue following figures released by the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR).
The controversy stems from a productivity downgrade within the OBR’s forecasts, which Reeves highlighted as necessitating increased tax revenue. Badenoch accused Reeves of “wallowing in self-pity and whining about misogyny and mansplaining” in her official budget response,comments Reeves herself described as making her “uncomfortable” due to their personal nature. Badenoch defended her tone, stating her role is to “hold the government to account, not to provide emotional support for the chancellor.”
Downing Street has publicly defended Reeves,with a No 10 source stating that claims of misleading the public were “categorically untrue.” Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to reiterate this support on Monday in a speech from Downing Street, where he will also praise the budget for its impact on the cost of living and inflation.
Starmer will together announce a renewed focus on cutting business regulation to stimulate economic growth, including a review of rules governing the construction of nuclear power plants. Business Secretary peter Kyle has been tasked with examining processes surrounding large infrastructure projects more broadly.
A related article from The Guardian explores the proposed “mansion tax” as a step forward: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/nov/29/rachel-reeves-mansion-tax-wealth
