borrowing

UK government borrowing data has struck an unwelcome tone ahead of this afternoon's Budget, after February figures were far worse than expected.

The government received more income than it spent in January, posting the highest surplus for four years following a drive to cut public spending.

The UK government borrowed less than expected for the financial year to 1 April, posting a total of £141bn.

The UK government borrowed a record £16.2bn in September to repair the nation's finances, a figure which surprised economists.