Budget affected by 'shifting sands'

A CABINET minister has defended the pre-Budget process, saying it has taken place on “shifting sands’ amid fears about the economic impact of the weeks of speculation about what it will contain.

- HELEN CORBETT

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander also declined to deny that the Chancellor is planning a pay-per-mile scheme for electric vehicle (EV) drivers, even as she boosts a grant that cuts the upfront costs for buyers.

Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, has criticised what he called the “hokey cokey” Budget and called out ministers for leaking key announcements ahead of the Chancellor's statement on Wednesday.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has reportedly abandoned expected plans to hike income tax rates, after a press conference and behind-the-scenes briefings aimed at preparing the country for the manifesto-busting move. The apparent U-turn was said to have come about because of improved economic forecasts.