Next month's UK budget will be made more difficult by Donald Trump's military campaign against Iran, according to Bridget Phillipson, the Labour chair and minister for women and equalities. She stated that the conflict has disrupted global oil supplies and led to significant inflationary pressures, which will complicate Chancellor John Healey's budget planning.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham is expected to meet President Trump early next week at the UN general assembly summit in New York. The two leaders have previously spoken twice by phone since Burnham became Prime Minister.
Phillipson addressed Burnham's past criticisms of Trump, stating that such political comments are not expected to hinder a strong relationship between the two leaders. She also reiterated the UK's condemnation of Trump's military actions against Iran, while affirming the UK's decision not to get involved in the conflict.
Despite the challenges, Phillipson described the UK economy as being in a strong position, particularly with recent growth figures. She added that tackling cost of living challenges remains a priority for the government as the budget approaches.