Recent research conducted by the University of Bristol reveals British voters have largely endorsed the £40bn tax increases presented in Rachel Reeves’s inaugural budget, despite anticipating personal financial impacts. The study, commissioned by the abrdn Financial Fairness Trust, surveyed 5,800 voters, with 48% considering the tax rises “necessary” for improving public services.
The chancellor’s October budget outlined substantial tax increases, primarily targeting a £25bn rise in employer national insurance contributions. The measures aim to bolster investment in critical public services, particularly the NHS and education sector. The research indicates 18% of respondents remained neutral on the changes, while 24% deemed them “unnecessary.”
Notably, 57% of those surveyed expect to experience negative financial consequences from the budget measures. Older demographics expressed particular concern, likely due to Reeves’s contentious decision to withdraw winter fuel allowance from most pensioners. Political affiliations significantly influenced perspectives, with 65% of Labour voters supporting the necessity of tax increases, contrasting sharply with just 29% of Reform UK supporters.
The study also explored public sentiment towards specific tax measures. The implementation of VAT on private school fees garnered substantial support, with 51% approving the measure. However, increased inheritance tax provisions, including new levies on farmland, faced considerable opposition, with 45% of respondents expressing disapproval.
The Treasury’s recent spending review launch saw Reeves pledge an “iron fist” approach to government waste. However, the Institute for Fiscal Studies suggests additional tax increases may be necessary before the parliament’s conclusion to prevent departmental budget constraints. Public appetite for future tax rises appears limited, with council tax increases particularly unpopular, supported by merely 12% of respondents.
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