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Mon, 05 Oct 2026

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 Shadow chancellor vows to cut at least one tax in every Tory budget

Shadow ministers unveiled a series of policies on day two of the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham.
Shadow Chancellor Andrew Griffith has announced plans to scrap at least one tax every budget if the Conservatives return to power, with the "mansion tax" being a top target for removal. Speaking at the party's conference in Birmingham, Griffith stated that his goal is to lower, simplify, and make taxes fairer, while also ensuring that any cuts are only made when the country can afford it. Griffith cited Nigel Lawson as an example of a successful approach to taxation and said he aims to follow in Lawson's footsteps. He claimed that Labour's plans for a "mansion tax" would be detrimental to the economy and would distort the housing market, removing the incentive for home improvements. The Conservatives have also committed to keeping the pensions triple lock, with Griffith stating that they will continue to support it. Additionally, the party has announced plans to scrap environmental and energy efficiency regulations, such as the future homes standard, in an effort to boost business growth. Other proposals include implementing a single levy for developers, abolishing Natural England and the Environment Agency, and supporting a third runway at Heathrow Airport. The Conservatives have been criticized by opposition parties, with Labour accusing them of "completely failing" to grow the economy during their 14 years in power. The party's leadership has sought to distance itself from past policies, with Griffith stating that they are taking a different approach under Kemi Badenoch's leadership. However, critics have accused them of copying Reform UK's policies and failing to provide credible economic plans.