Boris Johnson has lashed out at Labour’s economic policies following Rachel Reeves’ spring statement, claiming the government is “wreaking havoc on the economy.” The former prime minister’s fiery comments come as new forecasts reveal troubling signs for the UK’s financial outlook.
The Office for Budget Responsibility has dramatically cut its growth prediction for this year in half – from 2% down to just 1%. At the same time, unemployment is expected to rise to 4.5%, leaving around 1.6 million people out of work. These gloomy figures have sparked fierce debate about the government’s approach.
Conservative critics are particularly worried about Labour’s Employment Rights Bill, which hasn’t even been factored into these latest forecasts. The proposed changes – including stronger protections against zero-hour contracts and “fire and rehire” practices – could cost businesses an estimated £5 billion annually. Shadow Business Secretary Andrew Griffith warns this amounts to a “job-destroying” policy that no employers support.
While Chancellor Reeves promised to cut red tape and boost investment, opponents argue her government’s worker protection plans will have the opposite effect. The economic squeeze is already being felt, with growth slowing and joblessness rising. As businesses brace for the potential impact of new employment laws, Johnson’s blunt assessment reflects growing Conservative concerns about Labour’s economic direction.
The political battle lines are being drawn, with the government defending its worker-friendly reforms while critics warn they could further weaken Britain’s fragile economic recovery. With growth forecasts slashed and unemployment ticking upward, the pressure is on Labour to prove its policies won’t come at the expense of economic stability.
