IFS says tough public spending choices unavoidable

Minister dismisses Labour back bench criticisms

Responding to reports of Labour back bench criticism over policy, cabinet minister Steve Reed insists the government is “absolutely focussed on supporting those people who are struggling the most with the cost-of-living crisis”. The environment secretary lists increases to pensions and the National Minimum Wage plus increased investment in the NHS as a “Labour thing to do”. Report by Blairm. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn

Wes Streeting defends Labour's 'unpopular' policies

Wes Streeting has defended "unpopular" policies such as the cut to the winter fuel payment following Labour's poor performance in the local elections. "Voters have sent us a very strong message which we're taking on the chin. We know there have been some policies which have been unpopular whether it's national insurance or winter fuel among other things - that's how we're investing in the NHS," the health secretary added. Report by Kennedyl. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn