OBR forecasts: Lib Dems table ‘humble address’ motion to force publication
Lib Dem Media Team: 020 4548 3828 Press@libdems.org.uk The Liberal Democrats will table a motion calling on the Government to publish the OBR’s forecasts as soon as Parliament returns next week, warning any further delay will hurt businesses and homeowners. The Liberal Democrat humble address motion will call for “the economic and fiscal forecasts produced by the Office for Budget Responsibility, not later than 11:00 Wednesday, 12th October 2022.” It comes amid ongoing confusion and chaos from the government over the date of their fiscal plan and whether it will be brought forward from 23rd November. The Chancellor’s mini-budget has already spelt misery for millions of homeowners, with £1,500 already added to the average borrower’s annual bill. Liberal Democrat Treasury Spokesperson, Sarah Olney said: “This is yet another day of chaos and confusion from this Conservative government. They can’t even agree on a date, let alone a plan for our economy. “Every day the Chancellor delays publishing this forecast is another day of pain for homeowners facing a ‘Kwarteng premium’ on their mortgage. “Kwasi Kwarteng must publish a full economic forecast as soon as Parliament returns to end this mortgage misery. If he fails to do so, MPs need to come together and force this government to come clean. “After a completely botched budget, we simply cannot wait to provide Britons with the certainty they need.” ENDS Notes to Editor The OBR said that they will deliver the first iteration of their forecast to the Chancellor on October 7th. The Liberal Democrats’ motion would require the Chancellor to publish this as soon as Parliament returns, on October 12th. The full text of the motion can be found below: That an Humble Address be presented to His Majesty, that he will be graciously pleased to give directions that there be laid before this House the economic and fiscal forecasts produced by the Office for Budget Responsibility, not later than 11:00 Wednesday, 12th October 2022. The £1,500 figure regarding average mortgage payment was reported by The Times here. |
