Minister Torsten Bell Refuses Tax Speculation, Stresses UK’s Role in Ukraine Peace Efforts

UK Pensions Minister Torsten Bell has ruled out commenting on possible tax reforms, insisting such decisions rest with the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Asked on Sky News Breakfast if replacing stamp duty with an annual property tax was being considered, Bell said “I’m a newish MP, but I’m not an idiot. Tax decisions are made by the chancellor.”

He stressed that taxation matters will be addressed in the next UK budget in October,while highlighting a £500 million government plan to speed up planning approvals and environmental regulation to support developers and councils.

Turning to international affairs, Bell commented on the recent White House summit on Ukraine, attended by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and European leaders.

Bell said it was “premature” to confirm whether UK troops would be deployed but insisted Britain must be ready to help provide security guarantees for Ukraine.

“We cannot expect Ukrainians to rely on promises from President Putin after the illegal invasion. A meaningful peace will require meaningful guarantees,”he said.