The Chancellor's Spring Budget is set to be delivered on Wednesday lunchtime and is expected to outline targeted measures to boost workforce participation for benefit claimants, the over-50s and the long-term sick and disabled. Tackling economic inactivity is a key component of Jeremy Hunt's plans, as employment numbers have languished far below their pre-pandemic levels, harming the UK's already-struggling economy.
The Treasury confirmed this morning that the Energy Price Guarantee will be extended for a further three months from April to June at its current level, capping average annual household bills at £2,500. This will be a huge relief for millions of households who were bracing for a £500 increase to their gas and electricity bills, but it is doubtful that the £400 Energy Bills Support Scheme will also be extended once it ends this month, or that the £150 Council Tax rebate will be applied again this year.
As part of what is being called a ‘Budget for growth’, it has been reported that Mr Hunt will announce the axing of the system used to assess eligibility for sickness benefits - Work Capability Assessments. He is also expected to increase childcare support in England for Universal Credit claimants, and pay the costs upfront, which could result in changes north of the border.
