The UK Labour government faces criticism for its cautious economic approach.

Almost two months after assuming power with a historic majority in Parliament, the UK Labour government, led by Keir Starmer, faces a landscape that is far from the high expectations that had been generated. Despite correctly diagnosing the critical state of the country after 14 years of Conservative governments, the actions taken so far by Starmer reveal a tendency towards cautious management rather than transformative ambition. The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, presented the public with an alarming report on a "fiscal hole" exceeding €26 billion. This deficit is largely a consequence of unbudgeted salary increases for the public sector, as well as rising expenses related to housing asylum seekers. In this context, it becomes evident that the legacy of the Conservatives has left a deep mark on the country’s finances, characterized by reckless tax cuts and a lack of attention to the demands of public employees. However, the new government's justification that these difficulties could not have been foreseen is questionable. The deterioration of the economic and social situation was evident and visible to all. In this sense, Starmer's recent speech, in which he announced the inevitability of "painful" economic decisions and warned that things would "get worse before they get better," has discouraged many of his allies, from unions to loyal Labour Party voters. Starmer's political program promised to revive economic growth, but his initial decisions, which include tax increases and drastic spending cuts, evoke the austerity policies that characterized the beginning of David Cameron’s government after the 2008 crisis. While Labour seeks to make tough decisions from the outset in order to shift the blame to their predecessors, these measures seem more a fearful response to criticism than a firm ideological stance. The UK faces the urgency of investing in deteriorating infrastructure and public services on the brink of collapse. In this regard, Starmer should consider using borrowing as a legitimate tool for economic policy, investing in the country's future. However, in areas such as housing and a four-day workweek, the Labour leader appears willing to implement significant reforms, which could provide some encouragement to his base. As the government navigates the post-Brexit era, questions arise about its approach to the European Union. Starmer has adopted a conciliatory tone with European leaders, seeking to move past years of tension and conflict. However, the path to a smoother trading relationship with Brussels involves inevitable concessions, something that could be complicated by the disagreements caused by Cameron's mandate and his successors. One point that could benefit Starmer is the promotion of greater labor and educational mobility between young British and European citizens, a proposal that has gained support in several EU countries. Nevertheless, the Labour leader seems reluctant to commit in this regard, fearful of the reaction from Euroskeptics within his own party and the broader political sphere. The lack of a bold approach to economic policy and hesitation in addressing foreign relations could be seen as signs of weakness. Although tough decisions are an inevitable part of leadership, a leader's skill lies in how they articulate their vision for the future and mobilize the necessary support to implement meaningful changes. In a context where disillusionment with empty promises persists, the Labour Party needs more than a technical and cautious approach; it requires a clear vision and courageous leadership that inspires confidence in its ability to lead the country towards a better future. Expectations are high, and moments of indecision in the early stages of their mandate could ultimately weigh on the credibility of Starmer's government in the long term. Ultimately, the success of the Labour government will not only depend on how they manage the economy but also on their ability to unify their base and present a coherent plan that addresses the needs of the population. The coming months will be crucial, not only for the future of the Labour Party but also for the wellbeing of the United Kingdom.