Labour’s new deputy leader, Lucy Powell, has cautioned that the party must uphold its manifesto commitments regarding taxation. Powell emphasized the importance of the government led by Keir Starmer sticking to the pledges made before the election triumph.

This warning from Powell follows a recent speech by Rachel Reeves, where she hinted at potential tax increases, diverging from Labour’s previous promise not to raise income tax, VAT, or national insurance for working individuals. In response to the economic challenges, the Chancellor stated the necessity to address the current reality rather than idealized circumstances. The Prime Minister also evaded questions regarding the manifesto commitment.

When asked about the possibility of breaking the promise, Powell stressed the significance of honoring the manifesto, highlighting the essential role of trust in politics to garner public support.

In an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live, the MP for Manchester Central reiterated the party’s commitment to improving the financial well-being of ordinary working people through the budget. Powell also advocated for the complete removal of the two-child benefit limit, aligning with former PM Gordon Brown’s stance on the issue.

Powell’s victory in the deputy leadership contest over Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson was propelled by her campaign’s call for a strategic shift within the party.