22/11/2023
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt unveils Autumn Statement.
Here's a snapshot of the impactful measures that will shape the year ahead and influence millions of lives:
Taxation and Wages:
National Insurance main rate is cut, dropping from 12% to 10%, effective January 6.
Class 2 National Insurance, applicable to self-employed earners surpassing £12,570, is abolished starting April.
Class 4 National Insurance for self-employed individuals, operating on profits ranging from £12,570 to £50,270, witnesses a reduction from 9% to 8% commencing April.
The National Living Wage sees an increase, from £10.42 to £11.44 per hour, effective April.
Benefits and Pensions:
Universal Credit and working-age benefits receive a boost of 6.7% from April, aligned with September's inflation rate.
Local Housing Allowance rates are unfrozen and increased to 30% of local rents.
The Work Capability Assessment undergoes a substantial revamp to align with the feasibility of home working post-Covid.
A funding injection of £1.3 billion over the next five years is allocated to assist individuals with health conditions in finding employment.
Economy and Public Finances:
The Office for Budget Responsibility predicts a gradual economic growth trajectory, anticipating 0.6% this year and 1.7% in 2028.
A forecasted decline in inflation to 2.8% by the end of 2024 is projected, aiming to meet the Bank of England's 2% target rate in 2025.
The management of debt levels is strategically planned, with an anticipated decline to 91.6% of GDP next year.
Business and Infrastructure:
The "Full Expensing" tax break is made permanent, allowing companies to deduct spending on new machinery and equipment from profits.
The 75% business rates discount for retail, hospitality, and leisure firms is extended for another year.
Households residing near new pylons and transmission infrastructure are set to benefit, receiving up to £1,000 off energy bills annually for a decade.
A funding injection of £4.5 billion is allocated to attract investments to strategic manufacturing sectors.