‘Hard road to follow’ for UK prosperity, says Jeremy Hunt before budget

Chancellor says budget will aim to break down barriers that stop people from working, and give people hope

Jeremy Hunt has said there is a “hard road to follow” to return the UK to prosperity, but said his budget will show a plan to improve opportunities and grow the economy.

Amid calls from Conservative backbenchers for more widespread tax cuts, including to corporation tax, the chancellor said Wednesday’s budget had to create a stable environment for business, but added: “Within the bounds of what is responsible, we will always look to reduce the tax burden.”