The Chancellor will deliver a Budget later today [26 November] that takes the fair and necessary choices to deliver on the Government’s mandate for change.

It will include action to cut NHS waiting lists, cut debt and borrowing, and cut the cost of living to secure a strong future for the country, built on fairness and fuelled by growth. Action to keep prescription costs under £10, freeze rail fares for the first time in 30 years and increase the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage by £1,500 and £900 respectively has already been confirmed to put more money in people’s pockets at this Budget.

Investment for 250 Neighbourhood Health Centres has also been confirmed as part of the Chancellor’s commitment to slash NHS waiting lists further and end the postcode lottery of healthcare access. Ahead of her Budget speech, Rachel Reeves said: “Today I will take the fair and necessary choices to deliver on our promise of change. 

“I will not return Britain back to austerity, nor will I lose control of public spending with reckless borrowing. I will take action to help families with the cost of living…cut hospital waiting lists…cut the national debt. 

“And I will push ahead with the biggest drive for growth in a generation. Investment in roads, rail and energy. Investment in housing, security and defence. Investment in education, skills and training.

“So together, we can build a fairer, stronger, and more secure Britain.”