00:00The UK economy is expected to grow more strongly than was previously forecast,
00:05but families could still face financial pressure in the months ahead.
00:10The International Monetary Fund predicts growth of 1.3% in 2026, before slowing to 1.2%
00:18next year. It warns higher energy prices and borrowing costs could weigh on household spending
00:24and business investment. Inflation is also expected to remain above the Bank of England's 2% target
00:31next year. The Chancellor says the budget will look to give households breathing space,
00:37but the outlook remains uncertain, with the impact of conflict in the Middle East still difficult to
00:43predict.
