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How could the Chancellor cut spending?

Economy
United Kingdom
Started January 30, 2026

As the Chancellor prepares her Budget, attention is turning not just to how she could raise more tax - but how she might cut spending. Where does the government actually spend its money? Why is it so difficult to reduce that spending in practice? And what would it take to genuinely pare back the size of the state? Helen Miller is joined by IFS colleagues Ben Zaranko and Tom Waters to unpack the realities behind public spending. They look at how the government’s budget is divided across welfar...

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CLAIM Posted by will Jan 30, 2026
Cutting government spending is essential to reduce national debt and foster economic growth, allowing for a more sustainable fiscal future.
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CLAIM Posted by will Jan 30, 2026
The challenge of cutting spending lies in the complex web of welfare programs that many citizens rely on, making it a delicate balancing act.
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CLAIM Posted by will Jan 30, 2026
Any attempt to cut spending must consider the long-term social impacts, as immediate financial gains may lead to future crises.
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CLAIM Posted by will Jan 30, 2026
Reducing public spending could harm essential services like healthcare and education, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable in society.
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CLAIM Posted by will Jan 30, 2026
Prioritizing efficiency in government spending can lead to better resource allocation without sacrificing essential services.
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