Chris Mason: Could Reeves break a 50-year taboo by raising income tax?

Published: 11/4/2025
Chris Mason: Could Reeves break a 50-year taboo by raising income tax?
In a potential departure from a 50-year tradition, Rachel Reeves may consider raising income tax in the upcoming budget. The last time the basic rate of income tax was increased was in 1975 by Labour's Denis Healey. Reeves is hinting at challenging the election manifesto promise not to raise taxes, signaling potential tough decisions ahead. Economists suggest the dire state of the economy might leave little room for other options.