Research and analysis

All IFS analysis to date of Chancellor Rachel Reeves' 2025 Spring Statement.

The latest official statistics on household incomes show dramatic falls, but there is reason to doubt their reliability.

What were the decisions and trade-offs made by Chancellor Reeves?

IFS Director Paul Johnson explains the Spring 2025 Statement in 90 seconds.

In response to deteriorating global economic conditions, Rachel Reeves chose to fine-tune her spending plans to continue to meet her fiscal rules. 

A recent change in ONS methodology reduced measured household wealth by over £2 trillion. But is the new approach an improvement?

Today, the Office for National Statistics published new figures on government revenues, spending and borrowing.

Modelling of NHS waiting times shows increased activity, demand reduction, and patient prioritisation needed to meet the 18-week waiting time target.

Simulation modelling of NHS elective waiting times in England shows that the government’s 18-week target is unlikely to be met in this parliament.

The reforms announced today, to be implemented or consulted on, represent a fundamental change to the way that the state supports out-of-work people.

Rachel Reeves gives herself so little room for manoeuvre that she creates costly uncertainty when the choice is obvious: raise taxes or cut spending 

Mitigating the two-child limit policy would be an effective way to reduce child poverty, but designing an effective policy is not straightforward. 

Is the working-age population less healthy since the pandemic? What role is changing health playing in rising health-related benefit claims?

The bill aims to improve education and social care for children. But will it work?

This evidence should prompt us to look beyond simple financial incentives for classroom attendance.

What are the Chancellor’s options if – and it is very much an if – the upcoming Spring Forecast puts her on track to miss her fiscal targets?

Christine Farquharson's presentation at the Nursery World Business Summit 2025, at America Square Conference Centre, London.

The government’s decision to boost military funding out of international aid felt panicked. But this a watershed moment that needs a proper strategy.