Three things travel should look out for in today’s Budget

Childcare

Childcare is expected to be a primary focus for Hunt as the government seeks to get more people back into work.

The chancellor is poised to put £4 billion behind an effort to extend the current 30 hours free childcare a week afforded to working parents to those of one- and two-year-olds.

This is in addition to reforms already announced by the Treasury, such as increasing the amount of Universal Credit parents can claim to cover childcare expenses.

The long and short of the proposals will be more support for working mums and dads, and may help those juggling part-time or homeworking roles with childcare commitments find a better balance.

Energy costs

Energy is likely to be another focal point, with many still feeling the pinch as energy prices remain at eye-watering highs.

Hunt confirmed early on Wednesday the energy price guarantee – which caps energy bills at a maximum average of £2,500 per household – will be extended until June.

Initially set to increase in April to £3,000 per household, the extended cap will keep costs down for homeworking agents, and for those operating out of retail premises.

Rates relief and business support

Abta, in particular, has urged Hunt to extend business rates relief, with SMEs crying out for support to help them sustain their high street businesses.

Earlier this month, the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) called on Hunt to increase energy support, as well as reinstate the VAT rebate for overseas tourists.

Disavowed by prime minister Rishi Sunak during his spell as chancellor, the scheme allows visitors to claim rebates on products bought on the high street, as well as at departures points – such as airports and railway stations.

Despite all pressure, the chancellor is yet to indicate if any business relief measures will form part of the Budget.

Commenting ahead of the Budget, shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves has called on the government to show the "ambition" needed to unlock Britain’s "huge promise and potential".

"Thirteen years of of Tory economic mismanagement has left us lagging behind," she tweeted on Wednesday. "Labour’s mission to secure the highest growth in the G7 will make us lead the pack again. 

"This is the ambition we must see from the government in the Budget today."

Her words were echoed by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, who said his party would deliver growth "across the whole UK", if elected.