OBR Warns Labour Can’t Immediately Turn Things Around: Tory Plans Show No Real Growth

OBR Warns Labour Can’t Immediately Turn Things Around: Tory Plans Show No Real Growth

Rachel Reeves Opens Up About the Reality of a Labour Win

When the Shadow Chancellor hit the BBC’s “Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg” slot, she didn’t mince words. “We’re not going to be able to turn things around straight away,” she said, admitting the mountain of challenges that would hit the pocketbook of anyone who took office next.

Why It’s a Big Deal

  • Spending inheritance – Reeves estimates the fiscal load would be the biggest since the Second World War.
  • Public‑spend snapshot – The Office for Budget Responsibility warns that the current government’s plan shows “no real growth in public spending per person” over the next five years.
  • Real‑terms cuts? No guarantee – When pressed, Reeves confirmed that sudden reductions are unlikely until the fiscal gap narrows.

What Labour Promises to Do First

  • Reduce NHS waiting lists – a headline favourite for patients.
  • School breakfast clubs – because no child should be hungry before learning.
  • Low‑carbon projects – from green hydrogen to offshore wind, aimed at boosting future jobs and driving down energy bills.
  • Private‑sector investment – a ‘national wealth fund’ strategy that would invite corporate money into key industries.

Reeves made it clear that the party’s manifesto isn’t just wishful thinking: “Everything in our manifesto will be fully costed and fully funded.” A bold statement in a time when promises often fly over heads.

Expert Team on the Job

To navigate the fiscal maze, Labour has turned to a star‑study group: former Bank of England governor Mark Carney, Barclays boss CS Venkatakrishnan and Aviva chief Amanda Blanc. They’re helping craft a strategy that aims to coax private money into future‑proof industries.

“We’re determined to get in that private‑sector investment,” Reeves added, brushing off the inevitable slow turn‑around. “And we’ll play to bring good jobs, decent wages, and lower energy bills – all while boosting the UK’s economic security.”

Takeaway

Labour’s plan is a long‑term slog – it’s not about fixing everything instantly, but about laying solid foundations. If voters are ready for a realistic, grounded approach, Rachel Reeves says the party is all set to keep promises on health, education, and the drive toward greener, stronger growth.