Andy Burnham faces tough choices on taxes and spending as inflation hits 3.1 percent ahead of the budget

UPDATE - follow-up to Henry Zeffman: Andy Burnham and his chancellor have a battle on their hands as the Budget approaches - bbc.co.uk: Andy Burnham and his chancellor face a major battle as the upcoming budget approaches, with warnings that they must choose between raising taxes and cutting spending. The situation grows more urgent as inflation rises to 3.1 percent. Burnham has warned the public to expect difficult decisions in the budget. At the same time, Healey is preparing the United Kingdom for a really challenging financial plan. Despite facing criticism and being warned about the need for tax hikes or spending cuts, Burnham has rejected claims that he is acting like a tax and spend socialist.