Downing Street ethics adviser declines to investigate Rachel Reeves
Downing Street’s ethics adviser has dismissed calls for an investigation into Chancellor Rachel Reeves amidst accusations of misinformation regarding Treasury finances, reports BritPanorama.
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, demanded an inquiry, claiming that Reeves “lied” to the public about the state of national finances. Ahead of the upcoming Budget, Reeves refrained from dismissing widespread speculation about a potential £30 billion fiscal black hole, cautioning that downgraded productivity would necessitate difficult decisions for households.
However, the Chancellor’s office was informed by the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) that there was no deficit, with a report indicating a surplus of £4.2 billion. This discrepancy has further fueled accusations against Reynolds, especially as he stated that Britons face “the heaviest tax burden in generations” based on what he characterizes as a “sustained misrepresentation” of fiscal realities.
In response to Farage’s letter requesting an investigation, ethics chief Sir Laurie Magnus stated that it is beyond his authority to consider actions of government departments or matters not directly related to ministers. He emphasized that regulatory questions fall under the jurisdiction of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), leading him to conclude there was no basis for an inquiry into Reeves.
The FCA also confirmed on Wednesday that they had not initiated any investigation regarding these claims.
This unfolding situation highlights ongoing concerns over fiscal transparency and the complexities of government communication in a precarious financial landscape.
