Tag: windfall tax

Seven things to watch for in the Budget

Including thoughts on the OBR’s new forecasts and old Brexit assumptions, PuFIns, bank ‘windfall’ taxes, youth minimum wages, and why we actually need a ‘do some real good’ Budget. John Healey will probably be aiming for a low-key ‘first do no harm’ Budget: a few treats for households and businesses, with no nasty surprises for … Continue reading Seven things to watch for in the Budget →

Politicians should work with BP and Shell, not demonise them

Many commentators like to pontificate about the profits made by big energy companies. But this grandstanding reveals a feeble grasp of basic economics and numbers, and is ultimately counterproductive. In case you missed it, some big companies selling products which are now in short supply have seen their profits rise because of higher prices. This … Continue reading Politicians should work with BP and Shell, not demonise them →

What will Labour do on tax?

Just in case Labour forms the next government (it’s wise to be prepared for all eventualities!), here’s a rundown of their stated plans on tax, and what they might actually do in power. It’s only fair to start with what’s in the manifesto. The short answer is ‘not a lot’. The permanent tax measures include: … Continue reading What will Labour do on tax? →

Jeremy Hunt’s tightrope act could see the economy take a tumble

It’s usual for some of the contents of a Budget to leak out before the official announcement. This time, though, we already have a very clear idea of what’s coming on Thursday. The Prime Minister and Chancellor, and their backroom teams, have worked hard to prepare us for ‘difficult decisions’. The good news is that … Continue reading Jeremy Hunt’s tightrope act could see the economy take a tumble →