Jeremy Hunt Doubts John Healey's Autumn Budget Will 'Fix Big Problems'

Former Conservative chancellor Sir Jeremy Hunt has expressed uncertainty over whether John Healey's upcoming autumn Budget will address the UK's most pressing economic challenges. In an interview with BBC Breakfast, Hunt said he is not convinced the Budget will 'fix big problems', while acknowledging the difficult fiscal position facing the new Labour government. He pointed to high national debt, sluggish growth, and persistent inflation as key issues that any chancellor must confront. Hunt's remarks come as Healey prepares to deliver his first Budget, with expectations of tax rises and spending cuts to fill what Labour calls a £22 billion 'black hole' left by the previous government. The former chancellor questioned whether the new administration's approach would boost long-term productivity or simply plug short-term gaps. He also warned that over-reliance on tax increases could deter investment and harm the economy's recovery. As the political battle over fiscal responsibility intensifies, all eyes will be on Healey's statement to see if it can deliver both stability and growth. The Budget will be a defining test of Labour's economic credibility.