Chair of UK's fiscal watchdog resigns after early published report threw Budget into chaos

UK Budget Disrupted by Early Report Release

The United Kingdom’s Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) accidentally published its economic and fiscal forecasts before the official Autumn Budget presentation scheduled for Wednesday. This unexpected release caused confusion and disrupted the government’s financial communication plans.

Chair Resigns Amid the Controversy

Following the premature disclosure, the OBR chair announced resignation, acknowledging accountability for the unintended leak. The early publication reportedly affected the coordination of official announcements from the Treasury and Parliament, which rely on the OBR’s forecasts for policy framing.

"The release was a mistake, and steps are being taken to ensure such incidents do not recur," stated an OBR spokesperson.

Government Reaction

The Treasury described the situation as a “serious procedural failure,” emphasizing the importance of timing in fiscal disclosures. Officials are now reviewing internal processes and the protocols governing the release of sensitive budgetary data.

Broader Implications

The mishap has raised questions about transparency, oversight, and public trust in the country’s fiscal management. Economists stress that while the data itself remained accurate, its untimely release disrupted the intended flow of economic messaging.

Author summary: The U.K. fiscal watchdog’s premature report release before the Autumn Budget prompted chaos and led to the chair’s resignation amid scrutiny over transparency.

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CNBC CNBC — 2025-12-01

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