Raising the state pension age to save billions may seem attractive to a cash-strapped government but returns from earlier rises are dwindling

Economy and policy
Analyses of key economic trends and policy developments impacting businesses, markets and global growth

‘Never here Keir’ and a chancellor now seen as a political liability face a tough sell as a brutal fiscal reality looms over the next Budget

Both the country and the government must face the truth: either taxes will have to rise or services will need to be cut. We can’t have both

The prime minister is seeing his popularity – and his authority – fade as a series of costly U-turns make tax rises ever more likely
With Labour committed to spending more on defence, we need to be clearer on the trade-offs – while realising ultimately it can boost the economy
Labour believes a trade deal with the US will change its political fortunes, but there are numerous obstacles in the way