Pre-Budget report verdict

BBC Radio 4's Money Box was broadcast at 12pm on Saturday, 30 November 2002.

The economy

Chancellor Gordon Brown spoke of more government borrowing and lower economic growth in his pre-Budget report on Wednesday.

We asked Michael Hughes of Baring Asset Management what he thought of Brown's predictions and plans.

 Listen to the audio

Also:

Brown warns on the economy

What the pre-budget report means for you

Gilts

The Debt Management Office has confirmed it will issue a further £3.8bn of government bonds this year to fund the chancellor's borrowing.

David Cassidy, chairman of independent financial advisers Nelson explained how this kind of investment works.

 Listen to the audio

Also:

Understanding Cash Isa's and bonds

Tax

More details emerged on the tax and National Insurance increases we face in April 2003.

John Whiting of PricewaterhouseCoopers explained the changes.

 Listen to the audio

Also:

A tax experts view

Pensions

The new pension credit will be 'the biggest increase in pensions since the old age pension was introduced' according to Gordon Brown.

And he announced that the tax free lump sum and tax relief currently given on pensions would remain.

 Listen to the audio

Also:

Pensions tax relief to stay

Council tax

Public sector wage demands, funding changes and a revaluation of properties could mean steep rises in council tax in the years to come.

 Listen to the audio

Also:

Fear over council tax rises

Equitable Life

The shock departure of Finance Director Charles Bellringer has further undermined confidence in Equitable Life.

We asked the Financial Services Compensation Scheme what protection investors would have if it went bust.

And we also spoke to Liberal Democrat MP Vincent Cable, who recently called a debate in the House of Commons on Equitable Life.

 Listen to the audio

Also:

Equitable finance chief resigns

FSA: Equitable 'should not be wound up'

Q&A: What if Equitable closes down

Presenter: Paul Lewis
Producer: Jennifer Clarke
Reporter: Mike Johnson