Rachel Reeves will deliver her first budget as Chancellor of the Exchequer to the House of Commons on Wednesday. Labour has said they are having to make 'tough decisions’ after claiming they inherited a £22bn "black hole”in the public finances from the previous government.
Among the announcements that have already been confirmed is that the minimum wage will rise to £12.21 an hour next year - a 6.7% increase. Read more: What could be announced in Autumn Budget 2024 - from state pension rise to tax changes The chancellor described the move as a “significant step” towards delivering on Labour’s manifesto promise to introduce a “genuine living wage for working people”.
There is also speculation that the government will raise national insurance contributions for employers. Ms Reeves will deliver her statement around 12.30pm today following Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) in the House of Commons.
You can watch Ms Reeves announce the budget and the debate which follows on the Parliament’s online streaming website.