Public Opinion Insights on the 2025 Budget Preview

The public’s sentiment regarding the UK economy ahead of the 2025 budget indicates widespread dissatisfaction. Recent data reveals that a significant portion of Britons believes the economy is in dire straits and criticizes the government’s management.

Public Perception of the Economy

Approximately 79% of British adults perceive the economy negatively. Similarly, 77% state that the government is failing to manage the situation effectively. A recent survey highlights that many citizens attribute the current economic conditions to decisions made by the Labour government, with 64% pointing fingers at them compared to 46% blaming the Conservative party.

Factors Influencing Economic Sentiment

Some key factors contributing to this negative perception include:

• Brexit impacts (43%)
• Low productivity among British companies (26%)
• Effects of the Ukraine war (23%)
• International market fluctuations (16%)
• US tariffs (15%)

Despite this, 73% of the public acknowledges that the Chancellor inherited a poor economy. However, many believe that conditions have either worsened or remained unchanged under current leadership.

Public Expectations from the 2025 Budget

As the budget approaches, various proposals have been put forward, and public opinion on these measures varies significantly.

Preferred Policies

Among the key budget measures discussed, the following have gained substantial support:

• Increasing taxes on gambling companies (82% approval)
• Removing VAT from energy bills (76% support)
• Implementing taxes on high-value properties (60% approval)
• Subsidizing employment for young people (60% support)

Conversely, tax increases targeting average citizens are generally unpopular. The least favored proposal involves reducing the annual cash ISA savings limit, receiving support from only 9% of respondents.

Public Expectations for Budget Measures

Expectations regarding which proposals will likely be enacted show a disconnect between desires and predictions:

• Increase in fuel duty (58% think this will happen)
• Reduction in cash ISA contributions (52% likelihood perceived)
• Tax hikes on gambling companies (51% chance perceived)

However, the most desired measure—eliminating VAT on energy bills—only has an 8% perception of being enacted.

Perceptions of Taxation

The public opinion on tax increases reveals a significant concern about fairness. Approximately 66% of Britons view raising personal taxes as unfair, while only 19% deem it fair. Despite this, around 30% of respondents acknowledge that such tax increases could benefit public services, especially among 62% of current Labour voters.

As the 2025 budget approaches, it remains crucial for the government to navigate public expectations and sentiments carefully. Addressing the perceived economic shortcomings while proposing effective measures will be essential for restoring confidence in fiscal management.