DAN HODGES: Chancellor Healey’s allies tell me this is his Budget strategy. He’s taking steps to avoid crashing like Rachel Reeves

The article argues that Chancellor John Healey is shaping his Budget to avoid the political and communications problems that followed Rachel Reeves’s previous statement. Citing ministers and Healey allies, it says he plans a more controlled build-up and an optimistic message, aiming to support confidence in the economy and distinguish himself from rivals who, he believes, talk Britain down.

The Budget is expected to carry the tagline “Hope For Britain” and include further details on devolving some income tax revenue to elected mayors, including areas without existing devolved structures. The article also says Healey and Andy Burnham have approved drilling at the Rosebank oil field, presenting this as part of a willingness to take difficult decisions on growth and living costs. The text provided ends mid-sentence.