UK Traders Look to Reeves’ Budget to Draw Line Under Truss Era

As Rachel Reeves, the UK's new Chancellor of the Exchequer, prepares to deliver her first Budget on October 30, traders are eagerly awaiting her plans to steer the economy away from the tumultuous era of her predecessor, Liz Truss. Reeves faces four key tasks in her Budget: instilling hope for better economic times, improving public services, managing fiscal constraints, and presenting a credible growth strategy. This article explores the economic context, fiscal challenges, and long-term growth requirements that Reeves must address to achieve these goals.


**Economic Context**

The Institute for Fiscal Studies' Green Budget 2024 highlights the UK's economic stagnation compared to other regions. To fund improved public services, the government needs higher-trend growth. The UK's public debt levels, interest rates, and twin deficit issues require foreign confidence and stable politics to manage effectively.


**Fiscal Challenges**

Reeves must balance growth acceleration with fiscal responsibilities. She faces constraints from Labour's manifesto commitments, proposed 'fiscal rules,' and the need to address inherited spending plans. To increase spending, Reeves may need to raise taxes or borrow more, but this must be done responsibly to maintain confidence in the UK's public finances.

**Long-term Growth Requirements**

A multidimensional budget strategy is needed to foster growth without relying solely on higher investment. This could involve tax reform, increasing savings for investment, and relaxing planning controls. Reeves should also consider the role of innovation and risk-taking finance in boosting productivity and driving economic growth.


**Innovation and Risk-taking**

Deregulation and promoting risk-taking finance can boost productivity and foster innovation. The Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA) could play a crucial role in driving this innovation, supporting the government's growth strategy.

**Conclusion**

Reeves' Budget must address long-term economic challenges rather than immediate pressures. Structural reforms are essential to escape the UK's low growth trap. The success of her Budget will be measured by her ability to instill hope, improve public services, manage fiscal constraints, and present a credible growth strategy that draws a clear line under the Truss era.