Fury as Nigel Farage 'to betray pensioners and unleash austerity'
Nigel Farage and Reform UK have been sharply criticized as "vultures" expected to betray pensioners and usher in a new wave of austerity following a prominent speech in the City of London, where previous tax promises were dropped.
Abandoning Tax Pledges and Promising Cuts
During his speech, the Reform UK leader discarded billions of pounds in tax commitments but promised significant welfare reductions and major cuts in public spending if elected. He warned that economic instability would trigger a general election in 2027, lamenting that Brexit opportunities had been "squandered."
Controversial Stance on Pensions and Wages
- Farage refused to guarantee maintaining the pensions triple lock—a policy ensuring pensions rise with average earnings growth, inflation (CPI), or 2.5%, whichever is highest.
- He also hinted at reducing the minimum wage for young workers.
Tax Scheme for Wealthy Overseas Investors
He reaffirmed his criticized plan to introduce a scheme helping wealthy overseas tycoons evade taxes, which opponents argue favors hedge funds and financial speculators over workers.
"If I'm right and that election comes in 2027, then the economy will be in an even worse state than any of us in this room could even predict."
Critics' Reaction
Farage was accused of proposing an "incoherent saloon bar budget" that prioritizes financial elites while deepening cuts to public services and neglecting pensioners.
Author's summary: Nigel Farage's recent policy shift signals deeper public service cuts and controversial tax schemes, drawing fierce criticism for risking pensioners’ welfare and economic stability.