Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered her inaugural Spring Statement to Parliament, revealing a drastic adjustment to economic growth projections.

The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) has reduced the UK's GDP growth forecast for 2025 from 2% to 1%, while raising growth estimates for subsequent years.

In her address following Prime Minister’s Questions, Ms. Reeves announced a £2.2 billion increase in defense spending, citing a requirement for enhanced national security amidst a 'more insecure world'.

Despite previously indicating that tax rates would remain stable, economic experts now suggest that further tax increases may be necessary in the autumn to address fiscal shortfalls.

The OBR warned that ongoing uncertainty in both the UK and global economies could derail the Chancellor's plans.

Ms. Reeves rebuffed suggestions from government assessments that welfare changes would negatively impact 3.2 million individuals, stating that plans included a £1 billion allocation for personalized training to facilitate job acquisition.

Union representatives, including Sharon Graham of Unite, criticized the proposed cuts, urging the government to target wealthier individuals for increased taxes rather than reducing welfare support.

Graham noted that a fairer tax system would yield more resources than the anticipated savings from cuts to public services.

While Reeves did not dismiss the possibility of future tax increases, she emphasized her focus on fostering economic growth as a primary means of generating revenue.

Citing her previous budget as a 'once-in-a-generation' fiscal strategy, she intended to adhere to the guidelines established in last year’s budget.

The Chancellor also addressed concerns regarding Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs, suggesting that an increase in tariffs would harm both the UK and US economies.

She expressed optimism regarding future trade relations following recent discussions with US President Trump and emphasized the importance of free trade with both the US and EU.

In her commentary on the contentious Employment Rights Bill, Reeves indicated the government's commitment to improving conditions for ordinary workers, including the prohibition of zero-hour contracts and enhancements to the national living wage.

Reeves' acceptance of complimentary concert tickets amid ongoing welfare cuts drew scrutiny, which she defended as a necessity for security and logistics rather than personal preference.

The Chancellor reiterated her dedication to ensuring that tax revenues are used efficiently and directed towards public priorities.

Despite the announcement of increased funding for defense, critiques from various quarters pointed to the cuts in welfare spending and their potential consequences.

The plan states that over £4.8 billion would be saved through changes to benefits, with projections indicating an additional 250,000 individuals may fall into relative poverty by 2030, including 50,000 children.

Protests erupted outside Parliament as activists decried the welfare cuts, asserting that they would exacerbate social inequality and harm vulnerable populations.

Among the voices raised in dissent was the Disability Benefits Consortium, which expressed alarm over the cuts to disability benefits.

In the reported plans, incapacity benefits are set to undergo significant changes, with adjustments made to eligibility for various support programs.

The OBR's assessment noted that Brexit continues to affect UK's trade dynamics and economic performance, projecting a long-term decline in trade intensity.

As the situation evolves, further developments in the economic landscape may shape the upcoming Autumn Budget.