Mr Darling is facing irreconcilable political pressures

Pre-Budget Report

Pre-Budget Report

Speculation is rife about the Pre-Budget Report (PBR), which chancellor Alistair Darling is due to publish on Wednesday.

But political analysts remain divided as to its contents.

Some believe Mr Darling will continue with Labour’s commitment to investment, while furthering tax on the rich to secure Labour’s core vote.

Others see signs of a tough report, with Labour addressing criticism of its financial policy by lining up specific cuts to public expenditure and tax rises.