Minister hints at tax cuts but says ‘no plans’ to reduce winter fuel allowance

Rishi Sunak is expected to use a speech to paint a more positive picture of the economy ahead of the Autumn Statement, which Jeremy Hunt has signalled could be used to cut taxes for businesses.

The Prime Minister will hail having last week hit his pledge of halving inflation as he gives an update on the state of the nation’s finances in London on Monday morning.

Mr Hunt, the Chancellor, heightened expectations that businesses could find some relief in his financial statement on Wednesday as he said now is the time to boost growth.

But he persistently warned against changes that could fuel inflation, dampening speculation that the pressure of income tax could be eased.

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