Labour Faces Criticism Over Brexit Scrutiny, Budget Cuts

Labour ministers are facing criticism for scrapping the Commons European Scrutiny Committee, leading to accusations of trying to cover up details of Brexit negotiations. Former chairman Sir Bill Cash called the move 'dangerous and undemocratic,' suggesting it would reduce scrutiny of Sir Keir Starmer's new deal with Brussels. Meanwhile, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has confirmed that taxes will be raised in the upcoming October Budget, attributing the need to a £22 billion 'black hole' left by the previous Conservative government. This decision has sparked backlash from Conservatives and within Labour, with Diane Abbott accusing Reeves of ushering in 'renewed austerity' through spending cuts, including axing winter fuel payments for pensioners. Shadow Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has denied the claims of a financial shortfall, accusing Labour of making poor fiscal choices.