Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Reeves Breaks Labour Pledge with National Insurance Hike

4/17/2025

46 5

Summary

Story summary

In a surprising move during her autumn Budget, Rachel Reeves raised employer national insurance contributions, breaking Labour's election pledges. This decision comes as the Labour Force Survey shows a promising 5.9% wage growth, yet a concerning drop in job vacancies to a four-year low of 781,000, hinting at possible job cuts ahead.

1 of 1

Story summary

In a surprising move during her autumn Budget, Rachel Reeves raised employer national insurance contributions, breaking Labour's election pledges. This decision comes as the Labour Force Survey shows a promising 5.9% wage growth, yet a concerning drop in job vacancies to a four-year low of 781,000, hinting at possible job cuts ahead.