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Apr 3, 2025 4:52 pm
Global Media Network
John Healey Economic Growth Plan Ahead Budget UK
UK Chancellor John Healey has said economic growth will be the main goal of his first budget as he prepares to present the government's financial plan in October. He said stronger growth is the best way to improve public finances while keeping spending under control. In his first major speech since becoming chancellor in July, Healey said he wants growth to reach every part of the United Kingdom. He said his budget on October 28 will focus on investment, jobs, and long-term economic stability. Healey said the government will continue to follow its fiscal rules. He said Labour plans to balance day-to-day public spending with tax income by the 2029-30 financial year. The chancellor said economic growth is the foundation of the government's plan. He believes a stronger economy will help create jobs, support businesses, and improve living standards across the country. Healey spoke during an event in Coventry, one of the UK's key manufacturing cities. He met business leaders and industry representatives as the government works on its first full budget. His speech came during a period of uncertainty in global financial markets. Rising government borrowing costs have increased pressure on the UK's public finances in recent weeks. Long-term UK government bond yields reached their highest level in nearly two decades. Economists say higher borrowing costs make it more expensive for governments to finance spending and investment. Healey said global uncertainty has made the government's job more difficult. He added that businesses also face greater challenges when financial markets become unstable. The chancellor said the UK is still dealing with the effects of past financial instability. He argued that responsible public finances remain important for maintaining confidence in the economy. At the same time, Healey said the government is committed to increasing investment in areas that support growth. He pointed to innovation, infrastructure, and manufacturing as important parts of that strategy. The speech came on the same day that Jaguar Land Rover announced plans to reduce about 4,000 jobs over the next two years. The company cited global competition, trade pressures, and restructuring plans as reasons for the workforce reduction. Healey did not comment directly on the company's business decision during his speech. Instead, he focused on creating conditions for businesses to invest and grow in the UK. The chancellor said Labour will keep its election promise not to raise taxes on working people. He declined to discuss possible tax changes before the budget. However, Healey said the government must also be honest about controlling public spending. He said difficult choices are needed to keep the country's finances on a stable path. One area receiving attention is welfare spending. Healey said reducing welfare costs is linked to helping more people enter the workforce. He described youth unemployment as both an economic and social challenge. The government is preparing new policies aimed at helping young people find jobs and build careers. Healey said supporting young people into work benefits both individuals and taxpayers. More people working means fewer benefit payments and higher tax revenue over time. The government is also reviewing youth employment through an independent report. Healey said the findings will help shape future employment policies. Another key part of the budget will focus on regional growth. Healey said local leaders should have greater control over economic decisions in their areas. The government plans to expand tax and spending powers for regional mayors. The proposal includes allowing regions to keep more business rates and receive a share of income tax revenue. Healey said stronger local decision-making can help drive investment outside London. He wants economic growth to reach towns, cities, and communities across the UK. The budget is also expected to include measures to reduce barriers for businesses. Healey said cutting unnecessary rules can help companies invest faster and create more jobs. He added that investment and innovation will remain central parts of the government's economic strategy. The goal is to build a stronger economy that supports long-term growth. Business groups and economists continue to watch the government's plans closely. Many expect the October budget to address rising costs, public spending pressures, and slower economic growth. Global events have also increased uncertainty for the UK economy. Rising energy costs and international conflicts have added pressure to financial markets and government budgets. Healey said long-term growth is the most effective way to improve the country's finances. He believes economic expansion is the answer to both the cost-of-living challenge and business confidence. The October budget will be the first major test of Healey's economic leadership. It is expected to outline how the government plans to balance growth, investment, and spending discipline over the coming years.
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