Rachel Reeves sets early March date for spring statement as OBR prepares forecast

3 March update aims to give stability and certainty' after criticism over leaks before November budget

Rachel Reeves has set a date of 3 March for an early spring statement, as Labour attempts to draw a line under a year of tax speculation blamed by business leaders for damaging Britain's economy.

Announcing a date to prioritise stability and certainty", the Treasury said the chancellor had asked the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) to prepare forecasts for the economy and public finances.