New figures from the Office for National Statistics show that net borrowing was well above forecasts at £24.3 billion in April 2026. That’s £4.9 billion – 25% – more than in April last year, and £3.4 billion more than the £20.9 billion forecast by the OBR. Not much room for Andy to expand on…
The ONS also says: “The current budget deficit – borrowing to fund day-to-day public sector activities – was £17.4 billion in April 2026; this was £3.4 billion (24.6%) more than in April 2025, and £2.6 billion more than the £14.8 billion forecast by the OBR.” Ballooning…
Andrew Griffith, Shadow Business Secretary said:
“Despite record increases in tax, government borrowing was still up 25% year on year for April. It’s clear the Chancellor has no grip on the nations finances.”
The ONS’ chief economist said this was down partly to spending on benefits: “Borrowing this month was substantially higher than in April last year and although receipts increased compared to with April 2025, this was more than offset by higher spending on benefits and other costs.” The Government also paid £10.3 billion on debt interest repayments, the highest for any April on record…
Paula Barker, Liverpool Wavertree MP backing Andy Burnham, told Times Radio there wouldn’t be trouble from the markets under Burnham:
“The markets will have to fall in line.”