A Cabinet minister has defended the pre-Budget process, saying it has taken place on “shifting sands” amid fears about the economic impact of the weeks of speculation about what it will contain.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander also declined to deny that the Chancellor is planning a pay-per-mile scheme for electric vehicle (EV) drivers, even as she boosts a grant that cuts the upfront costs for buyers.

Speaker of the House Lindsay Hoyle has criticised what he called the “hokey cokey” Budget and called out ministers for leaking key announcements ahead of the Chancellor’s statement on Wednesday.

Rachel 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 appa

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