Government finances and spending

David Phillips says that even if chancellor Rachel Reeves manages to avoid making cuts, councils will still need a laser-like focus on efficiency

The new Chancellor faces a difficult fiscal inheritance. Her choices on tax and spending at this first Budget could define the rest of the parliament.

All the analysis from our IFS Green Budget 2024, funded by the Nuffield Foundation and in partnership with Citi.

We examine the challenges facing public services and the Chancellor’s public spending options at the forthcoming Budget and Spending Reviews.

We describe the fiscal outlook and set out the unenviable but important choices – which could define the parliament – confronting Rachel Reeves.

Changing the measure of debt could free up billions for investment, but it’s not a risk-free move

The government is reportedly considering a change to the debt rule to allow for more borrowing for investment. We consider some of the options.

Over a fifth of government spending goes on pay. We examine recruitment and retention challenges which mean that pressures could mount going forward.

What options does the Chancellor have for raising taxes in the October Budget?