Rachel Reeves intent on 'making Britain better off' on China trip - as she backs 'non-negotiable' budget

10 January 2025, 17:09 | Updated: 11 January 2025, 06:32

Making Britain better off will be "at the forefront of the chancellor's mind" during her visit to China, the Treasury has said amid controversy over the trip.

Rachel Reeves flew out on Friday after ignoring calls from opposition parties to cancel the long-planned venture because of market turmoil at home.

The past week has seen a drop in the pound and an increase in government borrowing costs, which has fuelled speculation of more spending cuts or tax rises.

The Tories have accused the chancellor of having "fled to China" rather than explain how she will fix the UK's flatlining economy, while the Liberal Democrats say she should stay in Britain and announce a "plan B" to address market volatility.

However, during a visit to Beijing's flagship store of UK bike maker Brompton, Ms Reeves said she would not alter her economic plans, with the October budget designed to return the UK to economic stability.

"Growth is the number one mission of this government," she said.

"The fiscal rules laid out in the budget are non-negotiable. Economic stability is the bedrock for economic growth and prosperity."