rachel reeves
In a blow for the chancellor, a new poll shows voters would prioritise lower taxes over investment in public services.
The chancellor confirmed the move ahead of next week's Budget.
Keir Starmer's approval ratings are now the same as when he was at his lowest ebb after the Hartlepool by-election in 2021.
Voters are also more likely to say it would not breach Labour's election manifesto.
One cabinet minister told HuffPost UK their colleagues were "defending the severe Tory legacy".
Several of Keir Starmer's top team have allegedly written to the PM to express concerns about the Budget.
No.10 says the last government "covered up" the true state of the nation's finances.
Treasury sources say the colossal sum is needed to prevent a return to austerity.
It's now at the lowest rate in more than three years.