Ahead of the Budget, New Data Shows Millions Are Already Having to Borrow From Family and Friends to Cover Their Costs

Surge in business confidence ahead of budget while public optimism collapses

UK business owners are feeling “hopeful” about the economic outlook ahead of the budget statement on the 26th of November, marking a stark contrast to the wider public mood, according to a new study from market research agency Research Clever. A nationally representative survey of 2,113 adults found that 52% of medium-sized business owners (50–249 employees) and 49% of large business owners (250+ employees) feel optimistic about the UK economy. …

Ahead of the Budget, new data shows millions are already having to borrow from family and friends to cover their costs

Public sector borrowing continues to grow, intensifying pressure ahead of the Autumn Budget

Professor Joe Nellis is economic adviser at MHA, the accountancy and advisory firm. Public sector borrowing came in at £17.43bn for October, painting a challenging picture for the public finances and reinforcing the fiscal squeeze facing the Chancellor ahead of the Budget. Despite signs of improving economic momentum in some sectors and a fall in inflation, the UK’s fiscal position remains fragile, shaped by subdued growth, rising welfare pressu…