The new Chancellor Jeremy Hunt had warned the public and the financial markets that his Autumn Statement would include “eye-watering” cuts in public spending and tax rises for those with the ‘broadest shoulders’. Unlike the ill-fated Fiscal Event of 23 September, the Government “rolled the pitch” this time with several leaks prior to the event. Mr Hunt wants to avoid the austerity that followed the 2008 financial crash and is focused on measures that will keep the period of recession as short as possible.

Many pensioners and those on means-tested benefits will be relieved that their 2023/24 payments will be uprated in line with the 10.1% inflation in the year to September 2022. There will also be further support for those struggling with energy bills. But this continued support needs to be paid for and the tax increases and spending cuts will not be popular.