The Chancellor, Philip Hammond, has announced that he will deliver his Spring Statement to the House of Commons on Wednesday, 13 March 2019. The timing of the statement is interesting as the Spring Statement is due to take place just over 2 weeks before the 29 March Brexit withdrawal date.
This will be the second Spring Statement to take place following the government’s decision to switch to a new cycle with the annual Budget taking place in the autumn, and the annual Statement taking place in the spring.
The Spring Statement is used to give an update on the state of the economy and will respond to the economic and fiscal forecast published by the independent Office for Budget Responsibility. The Spring Statement will also be an opportunity for the government to publish consultations, including initiating early-stage calls for evidence and consultations on long-term tax policy issues.
The Chancellor has previously said he will not make significant tax or spending announcements at the Spring Statement unless the economic circumstances require it. However, given the current uncertainties regarding Brexit, there could be scope for further material announcements to be made at the Spring Statement or more likely after the 29 March 2019, especially if we have a ‘no deal’ Brexit.
