Since 1982, the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS)Õs annual Green Budget has examined the challenges and choices confronting the Chancellor of the Exchequer as he prepares his keynote statement on fiscal policy and the economy. As the government continues to have to contend with the aftermath of the Great Recession on the public finances and household incomes, the issues discussed in this yearÕs Green Budget include:
¥ The planned fiscal consolidation and risks to the outlook for government borrowing
¥ The outlook for the global economy and the UK economy
¥ Policies aimed at stimulating the housing market and boosting homeownership
¥ The squeeze on household living standards and possible policy responses to help the low-paid
¥ Options for reforming state support for childcare
¥ Options for government intervention in energy markets
¥ Potential improvements to the taxation of private pensions
¥ Policy options for reforming business rates