Pensioners slam Labour's 'bloody stupid idea' as rumoured budget move sparks fury

Pensioners in Kent have blasted rumours that Labour could hike income tax in next week's Autumn Budget, warning that it would hammer those already feeling the pain of rising bills. The Express spoke to residents in Chatham, Kent, where many fear that another tax rise would push people to the brink. Mr Dennis, 87, said any move to increase taxes would be a "bloody stupid idea".

He warned that "people with money will just say b****r that, and leave the country". Joining the criticism was 66-year-old David Whiteman who added: "You've got all the bills going up, I can't even afford to retire." Chancellor Rachel Reeves will set out her Autumn Budget this month [November 26], with speculation of a punishing income tax hike looming after she repeatedly refused to repeat the manifesto commitment Labour made where they pledged no income tax increase.

In Chatham, several older voters told the Express they feared a blow to pensions and savings. 72-year-old Vivienne Champ warned that "the cost of everything is going up", and that people could "not afford to live on less".

The Treasury said that the focus of the next budget will be protecting the NHS, tackling the cost of living and reducing national debt. A spokesman said the budget "will continue to build the strong foundations to secure Britain's future and on the priorities of the British people".

The Autumn Budget will be delivered by Ms Reeves on November 26, amid rumours of potential tax hikes. Ms Reeves reportedly informed the Office of Budget Responsiblity (OBR) she wants to increase income tax by as a much as 2p in the pound.

Labour claim the Chancellor is seeking to address a 'black hole' left over by the previous Conservative Government, claims the Tories deny and suggest she has been unable to prove.

The Chancellor has previously said the budget will look to grow the economy and protect the NHS.