Starmer Assures ‘No Return to Austerity’ with Plans for Economic Growth, Rejects Tax Increases for Funding Public Services

Starmer dismisses the notion that increasing taxes is necessary to support public services, promising an end to austerity measures.

The leader of the Labour Party assured Sky’s Beth Rigby that winning the election would not lead to austerity, pledging to adequately finance public services without hiking taxes or reducing expenditures.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Thursday, June 13, 2024, 5:

For an optimal video viewing experience, it is recommended to use the Chrome browser

Sir Keir Starmer has dismissed the notion that tax increases are necessary to restore public services, asserting that a Labour government would not resort to austerity measures.

The candidate aiming for Number 10 assured Sky's political editor Beth Rigby of his commitment to "adequately invest" in the UK's aging infrastructure, though his manifesto contained scant specifics.

Latest Election Update: Sunak's Popularity Plummets to New Low in Recent Poll

The leader of the Labour Party has declared that increases in income tax, national insurance, and VAT will not occur under his policy plan. This stance has led the Institute for Fiscal Studies to caution that his central commitment to bring about "real transformation" could be at risk.

Sir Keir was confronted with the assertion that, since he opposes tax increases, he lacks sufficient funds to restore public services that have been diminished by years of budget reductions.

However, he countered, "I dismiss that claim. I dismiss the idea circulating that the best we can expect from our economy is to merely stagnate indefinitely."

"After 14 years, I see why there's skepticism about our ability to expand the economy. However, I remain optimistic that we can indeed grow our economy. We have detailed strategies in place for this."

Further Details on the 2024 General Election

Rishi Sunak claims that choosing Reform will give Labour unlimited control, reacting to recent poll shifts.

Headline: Survey Results Stir Concern Among the Public

Inside Look: The Clash at Number 10

Relevant Issues:

Sir Keir highlighted his commitments to reform zoning regulations to accelerate the construction of homes and infrastructure, create a state-run renewable energy firm, and establish a National Wealth Fund to finance industrial projects.

He stated: "These are significant pillars of development for the nation.

"I get that the main question being asked in this campaign so far is whether we plan to increase taxes or cut spending?"

"I am dismissing the notion that this is the sole contention. Therefore, this manifesto completely repudiates that argument. Our aim is to pursue growth."

Asked whether "pursuing growth" implied implementing austerity measures, he responded: "No, there will not be austerity under a Starmer-led administration.

"This election is centered on transformation. We are committed to adequately supporting our public institutions. I have faith in our public services. I completely dismiss the idea that we cannot improve upon our performance from the past 14 years."

For an optimal viewing experience, it is recommended to use the Chrome browser.

Referring to his previous role as Director of Public Prosecutions, Sir Keir noted, "I managed a public service during a period of austerity. I understand the harm it caused. We will not resort to austerity with a Labour government in power."

Sir Keir spoke just hours after unveiling his manifesto, committing to "put an end to the political theater" and "restore Britain."

The head of the Labour Party is striving to revive his party's fortunes following 14 years of rule by Conservative governments led by five different prime ministers. Surveys indicate that he is well-positioned to achieve this goal.

When questioned about his chances of victory, Sir Keir reiterated his prudent saying that he must "work for every vote" and "polls do not guarantee what's to come."

He mentioned that he has been gearing up for his role for a while now, which means he's prepared to start actively working from the very first day.

Sir Keir stated, "As anticipated, I believe the public expects any prime ministerial candidate to be prepared to immediately take action, to roll up their sleeves, and to be ready to begin their duties from the first day."

This is why I've made certain that, without taking things for granted, we've prepared thoroughly so that immediately following the election, we can begin implementing changes in dentistry, healthcare, law enforcement, education, and other essential areas where transformation is necessary.

"This isn't about settling or being satisfied. It's about ensuring that I can confidently assure the public that, should you choose a Labour government to represent you, we are committed to immediately getting to work from the very first day."

Associated Subjects

Sky News Bottom Section

Information on Sky News

Services Provided by Sky News

Sky Television Networks

Additional Sky Websites