Bridget Phillipson, the Labour chair and minister for women and equalities, warned that Donald Trump’s ongoing military campaign against Iran could complicate the UK’s next month’s budget. The minister said the conflict has disrupted global oil supplies, contributing to inflationary pressures that will make life more difficult for Chancellor John Healey as he prepares the budget. Phillipson, speaking to Sky News, acknowledged the political nature of Trump’s comments but emphasized the UK’s condemnation of the conflict.

Phillipson reiterated that the UK has chosen not to involve itself in the conflict, calling it the right decision. She contrasted this stance with what she described as a hypothetical scenario where Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage were in charge, suggesting they would have pursued a more aggressive approach. The minister also noted that the impact of the conflict is being felt at home, with the cost of living remaining a central concern for both the prime minister and the chancellor.

Phillipson dismissed criticism from Jim Ratcliffe, a petrochemicals billionaire who recently expressed doubts about the UK due to immigration and taxation policies. She questioned the credibility of Ratcliffe’s comments, noting that he is a tax exile in Monaco. The minister’s remarks reflect a broader effort to balance diplomatic relations with the US while addressing domestic economic challenges.

Andy Burnham, the prime minister, is set to meet Trump at the UN General Assembly summit in New York, where they are expected to discuss the broader UK-US relationship. Burnham has previously defended his comments about Trump, framing them as part of political discourse. He has emphasized the importance of maintaining ties with the US despite differing political views, arguing that the relationship transcends individual leaders.

Phillipson acknowledged that there are differences of opinion with the US, particularly on foreign policy, but stressed that the UK-US relationship has endured over centuries. She argued that the focus should remain on the British national interest, which Burnham is committed to advancing. However, the minister did not provide a direct response to the potential impact of Trump’s actions on the budget, leaving the extent of the challenge unclear.

The evidence does not include a response from Trump or any other official regarding the minister’s warnings. While Phillipson outlined the economic consequences of the Iran conflict, the specific measures the government will take to mitigate these effects remain unknown. The budget, due next month, will be closely watched for its approach to inflation, energy costs, and broader economic stability. The situation underscores the complex interplay between international tensions and domestic economic planning.