Today’s UK Budget sees the Government offer some extra support to households amid the rising cost of living, an above-inflation rise in the national minimum wage, and a commitment to future increases in defence spending. Meanwhile the Northern Ireland Executive will have to decide whether to mirror GB commitments to cut rates for High Street businesses, build more housing and invest in energy infrastructure. Overshadowing all of this is the urgent need for the Executive to agree its own budget for 2026-27, according to independent think tank Pivotal.

Headline announcements that will apply in Northern Ireland include extension of the current 5p fuel duty cut, suspension of import tariffs on some household staples (including the 4% tariff on kerosene), and the new Pension Tax Allowance which means those with income up to the value of the full state pension do not pay tax.

In recognition of high energy costs, there will be a £100 payment for most households in GB, together with an end to gas ‘standing charges’ and an extension of the VAT cut on electricity bills. It will be for the NI Executive to decide whether and how to deliver similar energy cost support in Northern Ireland.

Read the full press release at the downloads below.