It is now just a week to go before the first Labour budget in 14 years, and there are lots of rumours flying around as to what could be chopped and what might not.
Despite Labour’s landslide win there is a sense of doom around this showpiece announcement - not least because the Chancellor has repeatedly been telling us the country is broke.
But Rachel Reeves - like all who have gone before her at Number 11 Downing Street - has the power on October 30 to make some positive changes for families, and for working people.
In terms of changes that would really help people I’d love to see the following six steps.
Hear her rule out any more pinching from pension pots or any reductions to maximum pension withdrawals.
The amount those over 55 can currently take out of their account is 25 per cent up to £268,275.
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Consumer experts are offering Rachel Reeves advice ahead of her Budget announcement
GETTY / JANE HAWKES
This could be reduced to £100,000. If it’s your money you should be able to have it on your terms when you want and how much you want.
Next let's make sure there is no replacement of council tax banding by a 0.5 per cent tax on value of property for the year.
This could prove unaffordable for many households with unreasonable rates. Retain the single person discount.
I’d also like to see the Government keep stamp duty at £425,000 for first time buyers, and introduce a fairer Winter Fuel Payment system instead of a blanket cut to all those who do not receive eligible benefits.
Rachel Reeves could really help people by extending the freeze on fuel duty too.
Any increase would only serve to stretch overly tight consumer pockets leaving less disposable income for cash strapped families.
The impact would also be reflected in social care in the community and everyday essential grocery costs.
In a nutshell it’s not just household motoring costs which would feel the hit.
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Britons are worried about losing their tax-free pension withdrawals GETTYAn increase in fuel duty would have a much wider effect. I’d like to hear Ms Reeves ditch plans to introduce an unfair and inequitable ‘pay per mile’ (15p per mile) car tax which could see many drivers in their 50s face costs of over £1,000.
I’d also back a freeze on alcohol duty. Businesses are still reeling from last increase and we need to be encouraging people to support their local pubs and restaurants, not charge them more for doing so.
Extend business rates relief to protect establishments, employees and jobs which are already struggling and won’t be able to withstand any increased costs.
Consumer expert Jane Hawkes is an advocate for consumer issues and a personal finance expert.
