Prime Minister Keir Starmer has ruled out raising income tax as he faces growing pressure over migration during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to the UK. During Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), Starmer gave a short but clear answer—“Yes”—when asked if he would stick to his promise not to raise income tax, VAT, or national insurance.
Later in the day, Starmer was set to meet President Macron at Downing Street to discuss a possible migrant agreement. The UK is proposing a “one in, one out” deal that would allow it to return small boat migrants to France while agreeing to accept European asylum seekers who have ties to Britain.
The meeting comes at a time when the number of small boat crossings remains high. Data shows that even though 40% of attempts are stopped, the total number of people trying to cross the English Channel is still at record levels. Starmer wants a stronger deal with France to help reduce these numbers and improve border control.
During PMQs, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage demanded Starmer take a tough stance, telling him to say “no” to undocumented migrants coming from France. Starmer responded by saying the government is fixing a system “left in a mess” and that Farage has no interest in solving the problem but only wants to use it for personal gain.
Earlier in the day, Macron visited several important sites, including St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle and Imperial College London. His wife, Brigitte Macron, joined him, while Lady Victoria Starmer is hosting her at Downing Street. After the talks, both couples are expected to attend a banquet at Guildhall.
Though Starmer ruled out raising income tax and VAT, he left open the question of whether he would unfreeze income tax thresholds. Critics, including Conservative MPs, say this could still lead to people paying more tax in real terms. They also noted that he did not clearly rule out new taxes on wealth or pensions.
When asked directly about a possible wealth tax, Starmer avoided giving a yes or no answer. Instead, he focused on attacking the former Conservative government, saying Labour is committed to staying within its “fiscal rules.” This silence has led to more speculation that tax increases may still come in the next budget.
Despite the political pressure, Starmer is focused on securing a deal with Macron that could help reshape the UK’s asylum policy. By working closely with France, he hopes to show progress on one of the country’s biggest challenges—illegal migration across the Channel.
The talks with Macron mark an important step in UK-France relations under the new Labour government. As both leaders aim to reduce dangerous boat journeys and improve asylum cooperation, the outcome of their meeting could shape migration policy for years to come.