Starmer Promises to Fund Public Services Without Tax Hikes or Austerity in Bold Election Manifesto

Starmer dismisses the notion that increasing taxes is necessary to support public services and promises to avoid austerity measures

The leader of the Labour Party assured Sky's Beth Rigby that he plans to adequately finance public services without implementing tax hikes or reductions in spending, should he be victorious in the upcoming election.

Political correspondent @fayebrownSky

Thursday, June 13, 2024, 5:

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

The candidate for Number 10 assured Sky's political editor Beth Rigby that he would ensure adequate funding for the UK's deteriorating infrastructure, despite the lack of many promises in his manifesto.

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The head of the Labour Party has decided against increasing income tax, national insurance, and VAT according to the party's policy statement. This decision 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 questioned on how he plans to fund the reconstruction of public services without increasing taxes, given the financial constraints from years of budget reductions.

He responded, "I dismiss that claim. I dismiss the notion being circulated—that our economy’s best outlook is perpetual stagnation."

"After 14 years, I get why some might doubt our ability to expand our economy. However, I truly believe that we can enhance our economic growth. We have substantial plans laid out for this purpose."

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Sir Keir highlighted his commitments to reform planning regulations to expedite the construction of homes and infrastructure, create a state-owned renewable energy corporation, and establish a National Wealth Fund to support industrial investment.

He stated, "These represent significant pillars of development for the nation.

"I get that the main question we've been facing throughout this campaign is whether we will increase taxes or cut spending."

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

Asked whether "going for growth" implied austerity measures, he responded: "No, there will not be austerity under a Starmer government.

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

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Referring to his previous role as Director of Public Prosecutions, Sir Keir stated, "I managed a public service during austerity. I am aware of the harm it caused. A Labour government will not resort to austerity measures."

Sir Keir addressed the public mere hours following the release of his manifesto, in which he committed to "putting an end to the political theatrics" and "restoring Britain."

The leader of the Labour Party is aiming to revive his party's fortunes following 14 years of rule by the Conservatives, who have had five different prime ministers during that period. Current polls indicate that he is making progress towards achieving this goal.

When questioned about his confidence in winning, Sir Keir reiterated his prudent slogan, emphasizing 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, which means he is prepared to start actively working from the very first day.

Sir Keir stated: "Naturally, the public anticipates that anyone aspiring to be prime minister should be prepared to immediately get to work, ready and eager to tackle the responsibilities from the very first day.

"This is why I've made certain that, without taking it lightly, we have prepared thoroughly to be ready from the day following the election. We will immediately begin addressing issues in dentistry, healthcare, law enforcement, and education, implementing all the necessary reforms."

"This isn't about self-satisfaction. It's about ensuring that I can face the citizens directly and assure them that, should you choose a Labour government to represent you, we are committed to getting to work immediately from the very first day."

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