Rachel Reeves‘ ambition to turn around Britain’s ailing economy received yet another blow today. Official figures showed UK Government borrowing in September hit the highest level for the month in five years.

Public sector net borrowing rose to £20.2billion for the month, £1.6bn higher than September last year, according to the Office for National Statistics. Debt interest, pay rises and inflation all helped push up the Government’s deficit last month.

Sluggish growth, inflation at almost double the Bank of England‘s 2% target and spiralling Government debt costs continue to raise questions about the “spend today, tax tomorrow” Chancellor’s ability to steer Britain’s economy.

Ms Reeves said on Tuesday that she was “determined” to turbocharge economic growth and productivity with “good” jobs in all parts of the UK.

At a business summit in Birmingham, the Chancellor highlighted more than £10billion in investment pledges, cuts to red tape and reforms to planning and capital markets.

She also blamed Brexit for weakening Britain’s economy and productivity more than initially forecast.

Shadow Chancellor, Sir Mel Stride, said Ms Reeves is borrowing more and more money to pay for Britain’s spiralling welfare bill.

He said: “The ‘Spend Today, Tax Tomorrow’ Chancellor must cut Government spending and spare hardworking people yet more tax rises. Britain can’t afford Labour.”