Chancellor puts country on notice of tax increases

RACHEL Reeves has warned millions of Britons they could face higher taxes because "we will all have to contribute" to securing the country's economic future.

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Ahead of the November 26 Budget, the Chancellor would not commit to maintaining Labour's manifesto promises not to raise income tax, national insurance or VAT, fuelling speculation.

She blamed global problems including the tariff war triggered by US President Donald Trump and domestic issues for the "hard choices" she will make. But she insisted her Budget would focus on cutting NHS waiting lists, addressing the cost-of-living crisis and reducing the burden of interest on government debt.

Ms Reeves took the unusual step of delivering a speech three weeks ahead of her Budget to prepare the ground for the expected tax increases she will announce.