The chancellor, Rishi Sunak, said he would continue to do 'whatever it takes' to protect jobs and aid the recovery from the coronavirus pandemic, as he outlined the budget. Announcing tens of billions of pounds to extend the furlough scheme, support businesses through lockdown and boost economic growth, Sunak warned it would take 'a long time' for the public finances to recover from the worst recession in 300 years. The measures will be paid for by a steep rise in corporation tax in 2023 and a freeze on personal tax thresholds – in effect a stealth raid on workers. The Labour leader, Keir Starmer, criticised Sunak's statement for failing to address welfare, social care or the economic impact of Brexit

Rishi Sunak flags tax rises in budget as total Covid spending tops £400bn ► https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/mar/03/rishi-sunak-tax-rises-budget-total-covid-support-spending-tops-400bn

Budget 2021: key points at a glance ► https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/mar/03/budget-2021-key-points-rishi-sunak

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