Minister Denies Budget Leaks Have Damaged Economy
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has firmly denied that Budget leaks have harmed the economy, despite claims that speculation has paralyzed businesses and consumers. Former Bank of England chief economist Andy Haldane emphasized this atmosphere of uncertainty as a key factor behind stagnant economic growth. While Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to propose tax hikes to fill a significant fiscal gap, recent forecasts suggest she may abandon income tax increases. As pressures mount, including potential reforms to child benefit policies, the government maintains that speculation ahead of Budgets is customary, assuring stakeholders to wait until the Budget.