Income tax and national insurance unlikely to rise - as Sky News obtains definition of 'working people'

The pound has fallen to its lowest level against the euro in over two and a half years, and it has also weakened against the dollar. This decline is attributed to the looming threat of higher taxes in the upcoming budget and concerns about slowing economic growth. The situation is significant as it reflects the market's reaction to fiscal policies and economic forecasts, which could impact consumers and businesses alike.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stirred concerns by not reaffirming his commitment to avoid raising income tax rates, VAT, or National Insurance in the upcoming month. This uncertainty raises questions about the government's fiscal strategy and could impact public trust, especially among those who rely on the promises made during the election campaign. As the cost of living crisis continues, any potential tax increases could further strain households, making this a significant issue for many.

Chancellor Reeves is determined to challenge pessimistic economic forecasts as the government prepares for the upcoming budget. Despite her optimism, she faces warnings regarding potential income tax increases, which could impact households and businesses. This situation is significant as it highlights the balancing act the government must perform between stimulating growth and managing fiscal responsibility.

In a troubling turn of events, soldiers from the Sudanese Armed Forces have abandoned a crucial city, allowing the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces to seize control of its infantry division. This has left approximately 200,000 civilians in a precarious situation, trapped and vulnerable. The implications of this military retreat are significant, as it raises concerns about the safety and security of the local population amidst escalating conflict.

Sky News has put Lord Peter Mandelson in the spotlight, questioning him about his connections to Jeffrey Epstein. This scrutiny is significant as it raises concerns about the implications of such associations, especially given Epstein's controversial history. The public's interest in political figures' ties to notorious individuals continues to grow, making this a crucial moment for Mandelson.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to present the UK Budget on November 26, where she is weighing options for tax increases and spending cuts. This is significant as it will shape the country's economic landscape and impact citizens' finances, making it a crucial moment for both the government and the public.

Rachel Reeves is facing a significant challenge as the UK public finances are set to take a £20 billion hit, according to a revised forecast from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR). This unexpected downturn raises concerns about potential tax increases in the upcoming budget on November 26. The situation is critical as it could impact Labour's fiscal strategy and the overall economic outlook for the UK, making it a topic of great importance for both policymakers and the public.

Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, is exploring five strategies to tackle the persistent inflation affecting UK households. With the cost of living crisis lasting over three years, her efforts are crucial not only for alleviating financial pressures on families but also for strengthening Labour's position in upcoming elections. By addressing inflation, Reeves aims to restore confidence among voters and improve the economic landscape for all.

The article discusses the perceived decline of Western Europe and raises concerns about the region's capability to manage nuclear weapons responsibly. It argues that as these countries face various challenges, their reliability in handling such dangerous arms is questionable. This matters because it highlights the potential risks associated with nuclear proliferation in unstable regions, which could have global implications for security and diplomacy.

The Carabao Cup matches featuring Arsenal against Brighton and Swansea facing Manchester City are underway, with live updates available. The early moments of the Arsenal vs. Brighton match have seen the visitors come close to scoring, highlighting the competitive nature of the tournament. This event matters as it showcases the excitement of knockout football, where every match can lead to unexpected outcomes and upsets, keeping fans engaged and hopeful for their teams.

Hurricane Melissa has tragically claimed the lives of four people in Jamaica, adding to the devastation already felt in Haiti, where dozens have died. As the storm continues to wreak havoc, a hurricane warning is now in effect for areas including Bermuda. This situation is critical as the storm surge poses a significant threat to the Bahamas, highlighting the urgent need for preparedness and response efforts in the region.

Liverpool is set to face Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup, with the match kicking off at 7.45pm GMT. This game is significant as it showcases two competitive teams vying for a spot in the next round of the tournament, and fans are eager to see how Liverpool performs after recent challenges. The match updates will be available live, keeping supporters engaged and informed.

In a recent dinner on the sidelines of the APEC summit, US President Donald Trump praised Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, highlighting their productive meeting in Washington. Additionally, Australia's Energy Minister Chris Bowen announced a significant drop in wholesale electricity prices, which is expected to benefit consumers. This positive interaction between the two leaders and the promising news on energy prices are crucial as they reflect strong international relations and potential economic relief for Australians.

In the latest Netherlands election, exit polls indicate that the centrist D66 party is likely to secure the most seats, while Geert Wilders' far-right PVV may come in second. However, the election results are still considered 'too close to call.' This election is significant as it reflects the shifting political landscape in the Netherlands, with voters having unique options for casting their ballots at various unusual locations, including a children's zoo and a marine museum.