Thumbs down from backbench MPs

CONSERVATIVE MPs yesterday questioned the scale of Jeremy Hunt’s tax rises amid fears of a voter backlash.

Backbenchers acknowledged the tough economic climate – but lined up to criticise Mr Hunt for causing further financial pain to working Britons.

Some also questioned why billions were being recommitted to extending HS to Manchester instead of using the money to tone down tax rises or spending cuts. Former business secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg said: ‘I’m particularly concerned about the tax rises, when an economy is going into recession.’

Tory MPs are said to be bracing for a voter backlash, fearing Labour could pull even further ahead in the polls.

One said the mood in the party was ‘one of total depression’, Bloomberg reported.