Chancellor Rachel Reeves has signaled the need for tax increases in the upcoming autumn Budget, citing a £22 billion black hole in public finances left by the previous government. This announcement contradicts earlier promises made during the election campaign by Labour leaders, including Reeves and Keir Starmer, to avoid tax hikes outside of their manifesto's provisions. The decision to cut winter fuel payments for around 10 million pensioners has intensified backlash from opposition parties, particularly the Conservatives, who accuse Labour of financial mismanagement. Reeves has indicated that difficult decisions regarding taxes and welfare will be outlined in the Budget on October 30, while hinting at potential changes to inheritance tax and pension tax relief. The political fallout includes a demand for an investigation into Reeves's claims about the former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt's handling of public finances. As the situation unfolds, concerns grow among constituents about the implications of increased taxation on working individuals and pensioners alike.