Burnham rejects 'tax and spend socialist' jibe but faces calls to rule out Budget tax rises

From the Newshound archive · first published 19 September 2026.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pushed back against claims he is a "tax and spend socialist", insisting he is prepared to take "difficult decisions" at next month's Budget. With the fiscal statement just six weeks away, pressure is mounting on Burnham and his chancellor to set out their economic direction. Critics are demanding he rules out tax rises before the Budget lands.

The economy is described as the biggest challenge facing Burnham's government ahead of the Budget.

Burnham's refusal to explicitly rule out tax rises has stoked the "tax and spend" attacks from opponents.

With only six weeks until the Budget, his chancellor faces an uphill battle to reassure voters and markets alike.