Union calls for robust review of OBR over fears it holds back economic growth

The TUC accuses the OBR of downplaying the benefits of public investment, for schemes such as Crossrail (above) by assuming it ‘crowds out’ private capital. Photograph: Victoria Jones/PA

The TUC is urging the new chancellor, John Healey, to order a “root and branch” review of the Office for Budget Responsibility, claiming the forecaster’s approach holds back investment.

With Andy Burnham promising “good growth in every postcode”, the union umbrella body is calling on Healey to use his first budget on 28 October to re-examine the assessments of the watchdog.