Rachel Reeves defends budget measures during China visit amid economic criticism

Rachel Reeves, the UK Chancellor, is in China to strengthen trade ties, asserting her October Budget measures are "non-negotiable." This comes amid criticism from the Conservative Party, which claims she is avoiding addressing the struggling economy. The UK economy faces challenges, with government borrowing at a 27-year high and the pound at a 13-month low against the dollar. Reeves emphasized the importance of engaging with China, citing its status as a major trading partner. During her visit, Reeves met with Chinese officials to discuss economic cooperation. She acknowledged the need for candid discussions on issues like democratic values and market practices, while maintaining that fiscal stability is crucial for growth.