November 20th 2025.
We are just days away from Chancellor Rachel Reeves revealing her second Budget. In anticipation of this event, we asked our readers what they would like to see in the upcoming Budget. We then turned to our Senior Politics Reporter, Craig Munro, to give us some insight into what we can expect. Read on to discover what Craig has uncovered. For more exclusive analysis and updates, be sure to subscribe to Metro's politics newsletter, "Alright Gov?", which will be delivered straight to your inbox every week.
One of our readers, Charley, expressed a desire for lower taxes, but also stressed the importance of removing the two-child benefit cap. They pointed out that there are families out there with children who are struggling to put food on the table. In response, Craig delves into the topic of the two-child cap, which has garnered attention from both the Chancellor and the Prime Minister. They have hinted at scrapping it in their efforts to combat child poverty. However, with recent reports of backtracking on a potential income tax increase, it is uncertain if the benefit cap will remain. Craig notes that this could make it more difficult to fund such a move. Furthermore, with Reeves ruling out steep public spending cuts and extensive borrowing, the option of tax increases may be the only way to generate more revenue.
On the subject of the Budget being based on Labour values, Sir Keir Starmer has made it clear that this is his expectation. Our reader Thomas has a few specific requests in mind, including a commitment to central funding for social care and SEND, with an increase in taxation to cover the cost. They also suggest central funding for care for the aged, with the pension triple lock being removed and inheritance tax being increased to fund it. Craig explains that this will likely be Reeves' last Budget before the government's plan to reform the SEND system is published. While the Chancellor may be hopeful for reduced costs, she cannot factor this into her plans at this point. Similarly, the Casey Commission's report on social care, due to be released next year, will also require funding in the interim. However, Craig notes that it is unlikely for any changes to be made to the pension triple lock at this time, as Labour has made it clear that they do not intend to touch it.
As for our reader David's suggestion of an increase in the tax-free allowance, Craig provides some background on the current threshold and the proposed plans by Reform to raise it to £20,000. This idea gained significant support, but the government has responded by explaining the implications of such a change on tax receipts and essential public services. Craig also mentions Nigel Farage's comment that these plans may not be feasible due to the current economic outlook.
In conclusion, while there are many suggestions for the upcoming Budget, it is clear that the Chancellor will have to carefully consider the economic situation and potential consequences of any changes. As always, we will continue to provide updates and analysis on this topic. Don't forget to add Metro as a preferred source on Google to stay informed. Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below. What do you think the government should prioritize in the next Budget? Lowering taxes, addressing child poverty, increasing social care and SEND funding, or reforming tax laws for inheritance or pensions? We want to hear from you.
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