Prime Minister and Chancellor Order Ministers to Adhere to Spending Limits Ahead of Budget

In a rare joint intervention, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt have instructed all government ministers to rigorously observe current spending limits. A memorandum circulated across Whitehall departments emphasised the necessity of fiscal responsibility ahead of the autumn Budget, scheduled for 28 October.

The directive mandates that departments must identify and implement efficiency savings within their existing allocations. This move signals a concerted effort by the Treasury to curb public expenditure and stabilise the national finances amidst ongoing economic pressures.

Mr Hunt affirmed that the forthcoming Budget would 'meet our fiscal rules' and provide British families with 'stability' to plan their financial futures. The emphasis on strict adherence to spending targets comes as the government grapples with persistent inflation and the broader economic ramifications of global instability, necessitating a disciplined approach to public funds.