UK businesses are bracing for a pivotal Budget week, with a major conference of industry leaders setting the stage for a critical address from the Chancellor.
Business Anxiety at the CBI Conference
The central question dominating the CBI conference is whether Chancellor Rachel Reeves will present a budget that supports enterprise. According to the Sky News podcast 'Politics At Sam And Anne's', there is a palpable fear among business leaders that the financial plan could instead become what some are terming a "death by a thousand taxes".
This evocative phrase captures the concern that a series of smaller fiscal measures, rather than one large policy shift, could cumulatively place a significant burden on UK companies, potentially stifling investment and growth.
Inside the Budget Forecasts
Adding a layer of intrigue to the pre-budget speculation, the podcast hosts revealed a significant scoop concerning the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR). The independent fiscal watchdog's latest growth forecasts are a key element that could directly shape the final budget decisions made by the Treasury.
These forecasts, which outline the UK's expected economic performance, are a cornerstone of the chancellor's fiscal calculations. How they align with the government's spending and taxation plans will be a major point of scrutiny when the budget is unveiled.
Broader Political Context
Beyond the immediate economic discussions, the podcast also provides a broader political perspective. In a separate segment, co-host Anne offers a behind-the-scenes take on the ongoing diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine, highlighting the wide-ranging nature of the topics covered.
As business leaders gather on Monday 24 November 2025, all eyes are on the chancellor to see if her budget will calm corporate nerves or confirm their worst fears about the UK's tax direction.
