Starmer Defends Economy Amid Wealth Tax Calls at PMQs
Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced a confrontational yet composed session at Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) today as he rebuffed renewed calls for a wealth tax while defending his broader economic and public service agenda.
💰 Wealth Tax Debate Sparks Tension
Opposition leader Kemi Badenoch pressed Starmer on Labour’s tax strategy, asking: “Will you rule out a wealth tax that punishes hard-working families?” Starmer responded firmly:
“We can’t just tax our way to growth.”
He emphasised that his government aims to support business expansion, job creation, and public investment—without resorting to punitive wealth levies.
🧾 Economy, NHS & Immigration Highlights
Starmer pointed to robust economic indicators, citing fastest G7 growth, improved NHS appointment rates, and a stabilised migration picture after launching diplomatic efforts with France on Channel crossings.
As MPs from both parties muscled in on the economic argument, Starmer underscored:
“We won’t raise income tax, national insurance or VAT.”
👩🏫 SEND Reform & Doctors’ Strike Tensions
Lib Dem leader Ed Davey asked for cross-party support on SEND reforms, which Starmer welcomed—pending five agreed-upon tests on fairness, early intervention, and sustainable funding.
Labour also defended the government’s position on the resident doctors’ five-day strike. Health Secretary Wes Streeting stated doctors’ pay rises have already been significant, with further talks planned to avoid disruption.
🔄 HS2 & Criminal Justice Reforms
Conservative MPs used PMQs to raise concerns about HS2 project delays and Labour’s proposed limits on jury trials.
Starmer responded with assurances that:
HS2 remains a national priority.
Criminal justice reforms will balance public confidence with court efficiency.
🔗 Context & Analysis
Starmer’s refusal to adopt wealth tax proposals marks a clear stance ahead of later autumn fiscal reviews.
Cooperative tone on SEND reforms suggests potential for bipartisan progress.
Ongoing negotiations with doctors’ unions signal an administration keen to avoid industrial unrest.
