PM warns of “deep rot” at heart of UK

UK’s Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer will warn this week that things will get worse before they get better, claiming that there is “rot deep in the heart” of Britain.  

In what will be seen as an attempt to lay the groundwork for sweeping tax rises and spending cuts, the prime minister will claim to have inherited “not just an economic black hole but a societal black hole”, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Sir Keir will warn “working people” that he must take “unpopular decisions” in a speech on August 27.  Sir Keir will say he will be honest “about the choices we face and how tough this will be”. He will add: “Frankly – things will get worse before we get better.”

The prime minister will say: “When there is rot deep in the heart of a structure, you can’t just cover it up. You can’t tinker with it or rely on quick fixes. You have to overhaul the entire thing. Tackle it at the root. Even if it’s harder work and takes more time.” “Because otherwise what happens? The rot returns. In all the same places. And it spreads. Worse than before. You know that – and I know that. That’s why this project has always been about fixing the foundations of this country.” 

The prime minister has repeatedly promised that he will not raise taxes on “working people”, insisting during the election campaign that a Labour government would not increase VAT, income tax or National Insurance.   But his failure to rule out raising other taxes has led to accusations that the Treasury is plotting increases, such as capital gains tax and inheritance tax, as well as a possible raid on businesses.