Autumn Statement 23: 'Last roll of the dice' for government pre-election

Pressure on PM

Today’s (22 November) Autumn Statement was dubbed a last-ditch attempt for the government to bolster its political position, as eyes turn to the upcoming general election.

UK general elections have to be called no more than five years apart, meaning the next election must take place by 28 January 2025. Charles Hepworth, investment director at GAM Investments, said the latest fiscal plan may be "last roll of the dice" for Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, who promised a wide-ranging set of reforms and tax cuts for business and individuals. "With the Treasury now in a better fiscal position compared to the Spring Budget earlier this year, there must have been pressure from the prime minister to offer something to an electorate that on current polling they fear losi...