内容摘要：Ms Duffy said: “We know that there is much more to do to get services where we want them to be, and we will continue to work closely with the trust as they build on this progress and provide better services for children and families across the district.”

Ms Duffy said: “We know that there is much more to do to get services where we want them to be, and we will continue to work closely with the trust as they build on this progress and provide better services for children and families across the district.”

In other words, in England, Wales and Northern Ireland these would remain – depending on income – at 20p, 40p and 45p.But as people's wages increased, so too would their tax bill.

In 2019, the Conservatives also pledged not to increase tax "rates" - and went on to freeze tax thresholds.At the time, this was denounced by the Labour opposition as a "stealth tax".However, it is not one the party has specifically pledged to reverse.

Labour's opponents will argue that an extension of a freeze would undermine the party’s wider-ranging promise not to increase taxes on working people.Reeves has just 11 days to firm up her plans ahead of Budget day.

The country's first female chancellor has warned of a £22bn "black hole" in the public finances - a gap caused by

governing how much money it can borrow over the next five years."I will only strike a deal if it's in the national interest," he said.

"That's my priority - strength abroad, security and renewal at home," he added.The PM was speaking as a trio of US stock markets opened 4.4% to 5% down amid concern about a global recession.

Earlier, the government announced it wouldand provide £2.3bn to boost electric car take-up and improve charging infrastructure as a "down payment" on Britain's industrial future.