Alistair Darling MP, Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer responding to the IMF’s downgrading the UK’s growth forecast today said:

"This downgrade shows the huge risk the new Government is taking by deliberately choosing to take so much money out of the economy. At a time when growth in Europe is moribund it's increasingly clear that the Government is risking jobs and recovery.”

For 2010, only France and the UK's growth forecasts have been downgraded, while the forecasts for the US and advanced economies overall have been upgraded.

Yvette Cooper MP, Labour’s Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary, said in response to reports of possible Incapacity Benefit changes:

"Those who are fit for work should be working or seeking work.

Bob Ainsworth MP, Labour’s Shadow Defence Secretary, on Armed Forces Day said:

"Today is an opportunity for people up and down the country to recognise the achievements and sacrifices of our outstanding servicemen and women and veterans. 

Responding to Philip Hammond's admission on the Daily Politics on Wednesday 23 June that families earning between £25,000 and £30,000 will lose their tax credits as a result of the Budget, Labour’s Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Yvette Cooper MP said:

A Commonwealth Fund report placed Britain's NHS as the most efficient healthcare system, and second overall, amongst seven other international health systems.

Pat McFadden MP, Labour's Shadow Business Secretary, said in response to the government's decision to cancel an £80 million loan to Sheffield Forgemasters which was to support the civil nuclear supply chain:

"This decision is short sighted, damaging and wrong.  
 
"The Labour Government approved a loan – not a grant – to Sheffield Forgemasters which was to have been repaid over time.