The main thrust was warmly welcomed by the industry
John Webber warns that upcoming Budget must address business rates
“Trailblazer” devolution deals worth £1bn a year will be handed to West Midlands and Greater Manchester
More pension capital must be freed up to invest in infrastructure, says CMIT
BPF calls for “urgent action” from chancellor Jeremy Hunt
Liz Truss wanted 200 low-tax, low-regulation areas. Hunt may allow just 10
But the Budget may set out a new capital allowances scheme
The January surplus is £5bn higher than expected with public borrowing £30bn lower
The chancellor is due to present his Budget on 15 March
The downgrade would wipe out the £9.2bn headroom in Hunt’s autumn statement
Strategists say it would be the perfect time for a pre-election giveaway
Options being modelled by the Treasury could add billions to tax bill