SaralnamaOn 28 Aug 2025, UK Education Minister Stephen Morgan declined to confirm reports that Chancellor Rachel Reeves plans to impose National Insurance (NI) on landlords' rental income in the upcoming autumn budget. The tax move aims to raise about £2 billion to help cover a £40 billion deficit in public finances. Morgan said taxation decisions rest with the Chancellor and emphasized the budget would reflect Labour values. The proposal would extend NI, currently exempt on rental income, pensions, and savings, to landlords, potentially increasing their tax burden without raising standard rates. This measure is part of efforts to avoid increasing VAT, income tax, or NI rates for working people, as promised before the last general election. The government faces pressure due to rising borrowing costs and a large fiscal gap. Other political updates include appointments and protests related to UK leadership and international visits. (Updated 28 Aug 2025, 15:40 IST; source: link)