Who wins and who loses in the Autumn Budget 2026?

On 28 October 2026, Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey delivered the UK Autumn Budget.

The UK’s public finances have remained under pressure during 2026, with national debt approaching £3tn and government borrowing costs rising. Public spending remains above pre-pandemic levels, while the overall tax burden is forecast to reach a historic high over the coming years.

The wider economy has been relatively resilient, with the UK recording some of the fastest growth in the G7 in the first half of the year. However, higher energy prices have added to inflationary pressures, complicating efforts to control borrowing and debt-servicing costs.

Against that backdrop, the Government entered the 2026 Budget facing competing demands to maintain public services, support households and keep the public finances within its fiscal rules.