The UK government reported a record £17.4bn in borrowing for October, driven by increased debt interest payments and public sector wages. This figure exceeds economists' expectations and adds pressure on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to stabilize the economy. The Office for National Statistics noted rising inflation rates and higher spending without proportional revenue growth. Experts caution that the chancellor may need to consider tax increases in future fiscal strategies. Meanwhile, millions of households continue to struggle with high living costs and inflation, exacerbating the cost of living crisis.