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Pre-Budget Report
In the Government's first Budget in July, I set out the economic challenge facing Britain.
As we approach the start of the twenty-first century, Britain faces enormous challenges but has huge new opportunities. If we are to succeed in the global marketplace and have the living standards and public services we expect in a modern society, government, business and individuals must work together with shared economic goals.
The Government's central economic objective is to achieve high and stable levels of growth and employment. In doing so, we want to encourage a fair society in which everyone can share in higher living standards and greater job opportunities. And we want economic development to take place in a way which safeguards the environment for future generations.
In launching this Pre-Budget Report, my aim is to begin a national debate on the major economic issues we face. For too long in the past, Britain has lacked a shared sense of common economic purpose. I want to encourage an open discussion of the economic problems we will all have to address and the possible solutions that are open to us to secure our long-term economic future.
Over the coming months, the Government will listen carefully to all points of view. The debate will inform my decisions for the Spring 1998 Budget.
Rt Hon Gordon Brown MP
Chancellor of the Exchequer
November 1997
