Chancellor Healey vows fiscal relief ahead of budget speech

Chancellor John Healey said his first major fiscal statement will aim to provide "breathing space" for the public, releasing a video message ahead of the budget scheduled for 12:30 pm. He indicated that the budget will include measures to address the cost of living, alongside tax and spending plans intended to balance public finances. Healey described the global environment as "highly uncertain" and acknowledged that Britain cannot prevent all economic shocks, but pledged to offer "breathing space today, and fresh hope for the future."