Chancellor Rachel Reeves was this week hit by a growing Labour party backlash over her plans to cut state spending and news that the economy shrank in January. After seven months in the job, a YouGov poll found just one in nine voters think she is doing a good job.

The slowdown in January piles further pressure on Rachel Reeves and Sir Keir Starmer ahead off this month’s spring statement

Use precise geolocation data and actively scan device characteristics for identification. This is done to store and access information on a device and to provide personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. List of Partners (vendors)

Use precise geolocation data and actively scan device characteristics for identification. This is done to store and access information on a device and to provide personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. List of Partners (vendors)

Rachel Reeves has insisted on the need to "get a grip" on the welfare bill, saying the system is not working for the taxpayer or recipients. The chancellor's comments come amid concerns from Labour MPs about the impact of expected cuts to the welfare budget,