IFS director warns of 'months of speculation' over Autumn tax rises

Likely that taxes could be raised further, thinktank director warns

Sahar Nazir
clock • 2 min read

The government could face months of economic uncertainty and market speculation over potential tax rises ahead of an anticipated Autumn Budget, according to Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) director Paul Johnson.

Johnson highlighted the limited fiscal headroom available to chancellor Rachel Reeves, warning that any economic downturn in the coming months could force further tax increases. "There is a good chance that economic and fiscal forecasts will deteriorate significantly between now and an Autumn Budget," Johnson said. "If so, she will need to come back for more; which will likely mean raising taxes even further." He pointed to the risks of prolonged speculation over which taxes could be targeted, citing pensions, wealth, and capital gains tax as potential areas of concern. "With no se...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your profession

'Nobody is big enough not to be bought'

'Nobody is big enough not to be bought'

Roderic Rennison on the future of deals in the advice industry

Isabel Baxter
clock 20 March 2026 • 1 min read
PA Awards 2026: Photos from the night

PA Awards 2026: Photos from the night

Celebrating the advice profession's best

Professional Adviser
clock 20 March 2026 • 1 min read
Feel Good Friday: PA Awards attendees raise £15,000 for Go Beyond

Feel Good Friday: PA Awards attendees raise £15,000 for Go Beyond

Best amount ever raised

Professional Adviser
clock 20 March 2026 • 1 min read