Homeowners with a nice view or conservatory face HMRC mansion tax inspectors under Labour's 'Big Brother' checklist

Lord Jim O'Neill, having declined multiple invitations to serve in Burnham's government, has called raising capital gains tax "stupid" and accused ministers of shying away from difficult decisions on benefits spending. O'Neill argued that bringing down Britain's surging welfare costs is the only credible route to reducing national debt. He also urged Burnham to reconsider his "growth in every postcode" pledge and redirect resources toward London, the West Midlands and the Northern Powerhouse instead. Parliament returns this week and Chancellor John Healey faces his first Budget with tax rises still on the table.