UK Budget 2008 - Politics
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Special features
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
