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UK Budget 2008 - Politics

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Brown calls for VAT cut on ‘green’ products

The prime minister’s initiative on goods such as low-energy fridges and dishwashers comes as EU leaders grapple with ways to meet their ambitious climate change targets

Labour backbenchers welcome 'dull' package

The fidgeting and yawning on the Commons benches behind Alistair Darling belied an air of satisfaction among Labour MPs with a "steady as she goes" Budget.

Clegg hits at raid on 'kitty of low earners'

Alistair Darling delivered a Budget driven by "political desperation" that was long on "padding" and "piecemeal reform" and short on meaningful measures to tackle climate change or poverty, according to the Liberal Democrats

Philip Stephens: A gamble on global markets

Darling is navigating the global economic storms without a compass. All depends on whether the darkening clouds on international credit markets break into another storm, says Philip Stephens

Treasury looks to reduce N Rock debt to £14bn

Figures show the government is planning to refinance Northern Rock’s loan from the Bank of England this year by issuing more government bonds.

Fig leaves to hide fiscal nakedness

Alistair Darling accomplished a rare feat: he delivered a Budget that both Labour and Conservative parties believe could help win them the next general election

Cameron blames downturn on No 10

The Conservatives focused their attack on the Budget on the government’s economic record, rather than any specific measures

Budget to target ‘green’ and alcohol taxes

Alistair Darling, chancellor, will use his first Budget to raise costs for drivers of big cars and drinkers of wines and spirits, in an attempt to source more funds for the government’s fight against poverty