Andy Burnham has reportedly delayed major welfare reforms until next year, prioritising funding for higher defence spending ahead of the October 28 Budget. The decision matters because welfare costs are a significant pressure on public finances, while critics argue that postponing reform limits the money available for the armed forces.

Chancellor John Healey has also indicated that the Budget may introduce a higher council-tax band for expensive homes, often described as a mansion tax, to make the system fairer. Reports say the measure could apply to properties worth more than £2 million and permit HMRC valuation inspections, with refusal potentially carrying a fine of up to £200; meanwhile, welfare spending is estimated at about £1 billion a day.