Majority of Britons Expect Tax Rises Over Reeves' Spending Review

Following Chancellor Rachel Reeves' recent Spending Review, which includes significant increases in funding for the NHS, defence, and schools, a majority of Britons expect tax rises later this year to fund these measures. Polls indicate that 67 to 78 percent of voters believe the government will either increase taxes or borrowing, with many doubting the affordability of the spending plans amid a slowing economy and geopolitical uncertainties such as the Israel-Iran conflict. While support exists for specific policies like NHS spending and social housing, confidence in the overall economic outlook remains low, with nearly half of voters viewing Reeves' performance negatively, despite some improvement since earlier in the year. Economists warn that unless economic growth improves, the government may have limited options other than raising taxes further, cutting spending, or increasing borrowing to meet fiscal targets. Regional critiques highlight concerns that the Spending Review does not adequately address disparities in investment, especially in northern England, potentially limiting economic rebalancing. The upcoming Autumn Budget could crystallize these tensions, particularly if the Office for Budget Responsibility downgrades growth forecasts, increasing pressure for tax increases.