A former Bank of England chief economist today warned the "fiscal fandango" around Rachel Reeves ' Budget had caused "paralysis" in the economy. Andy Haldane said "costly" speculation about tax rises had caused growth to flatline in recent months.

Speaker of the House Lindsay Hoyle has also criticised what he called the “hokey cokey” Budget and called out ministers for leaking key announcements ahead of the Chancellor’s statement on Wednesday. Ms Reeves abandoned expected plans to hike income tax rates after a press conference and behind-the-scenes briefings aimed at preparing the country for the manifesto-busting move.

The apparent U-turn was said to have come about because of improved economic forecasts.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, when asked on the BBC ’s Sunday With Lau

See Full Page