Lloyds executive criticises Healey for linking bank tax rises to energy bill support

Chief financial officer says he hopes budget measure is temporary as sector provides loans that fuel growth

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A senior Lloyds Banking Group executive has criticised the chancellor for linking bank tax increases to energy bill support for UK households, as he warned the government against extending the higher levy beyond March 2028.

Lloyds's chief financial officer, William Chalmers, acknowledged that the economic environment was challenging" but said the government should not seek to ease pressure on households at the expense of the banking sector as it provides loans that could fuel UK growth.