Sir Keir Starmer defended the government's handling of the economy but failed to answer a question about taxes.

Chancellor on course to miss targets and spending promises as finances plunge deeper into the red

Leading economists say the chancellor may have to raise taxes, cut public spending or tear up her fiscal rules

Rachel Reeves will have to increase taxes substantially this autumn to fill a £50billion black hole, economists warned last night.

Sir Keir Starmer defended the government's handling of the economy but failed to answer a question about taxes.

Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves are said to have started holding meetings on how to fill a black hole in the public finances estimated at up to £50billion.