Prime Minister Keir Starmer investigates pre-Budget leaks, denying Downing Street involvement and reaffirming zero tolerance for improper briefings.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has launched an investigation into pre-Budget leaks, stating he has no evidence the disclosures originated from Downing Street. He pledged to take appropriate action based on the inquiry’s findings, referencing his past record of cracking down on leaks as head of the Crown Prosecution Service. Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed a Financial Times report revealing her decision to drop an income tax rise was an unauthorized leak. Starmer also addressed claims of briefings targeting Health Secretary Wes Streeting, asserting special advisers confirmed they did not come from No 10 and that he has consistently rejected briefing against Cabinet ministers as unacceptable.