Despite criticism, Sir Mel Stride maintains that the Tories are the only party capable of managing the economy effectively, asserting their unique position despite past failures.

Critics from opposition parties and think tanks warn that the proposed cuts could have moral and social implications, especially for vulnerable groups, and highlight that ignoring reforms to pensions and social care could undermine long-term fiscal stability.

A future Conservative government plans to implement significant cuts amounting to £47 billion across public spending, focusing on welfare, aid, and social housing, with detailed proposals to be announced by shadow chancellor Sir Mel Stride at the upcoming Conservative Party conference.

The proposed welfare cuts include reducing payments for individuals with low-level mental health conditions, restricting benefits to British citizens (while allowing EU nationals with settled status to remain eligible), and reversing the two-child benefit cap, all aimed at fiscal responsibility.

Additional savings will come from cutting around 130,000 civil service jobs, saving approximately £8 billion annually, and reducing overseas aid from 0.3% to 0.1% of GDP, a move that has sparked controversy.

Despite polls suggesting the party may finish fourth behind the Liberal Democrats in the next election, Sir Mel Stride emphasized the importance of presenting bold and credible policies to regain support and restore the party's reputation for economic responsibility.

The Conservatives justify these austerity measures by asserting that the country is living beyond its means and that fiscal responsibility requires making tough savings to reduce debt and fund other priorities.

Experts warn that long-term fiscal sustainability depends on reforming pensions and social care, which are not addressed in the current plans, raising concerns about the future viability of these policies.

Critics also argue that without addressing age-related spending, such as pensions, the government's fiscal challenges will persist, and current cuts may only maintain the status quo.

Opposition figures, including Labour's Anna Turley, have criticized the Tory plans as a return to failed policies, accusing the government of mishandling welfare, civil service, and aid budgets, and warning that these cuts could harm vulnerable populations.

Sir Mel Stride highlighted the need for the party to present 'credible, bold, relevant policies' at the conference to improve its image, emphasizing a focus on a 'stronger economy' slogan.

Analysts suggest that the Conservative Party is in decline, with some predicting it is heading toward electoral oblivion amid a broader political shift favoring the left.

Sir Mel Stride dismissed concerns about overlooking age-related spending, reaffirming the party's commitment to the triple lock on pensions and emphasizing that fiscal savings are necessary to reduce debt, lower taxes, and fund other priorities.