What Time Is the Spring Statement 2026?
If you’re searching:
“What time is the Spring Statement?”
Here’s what you need to know.
The Chancellor’s Spring Statement speech is expected to begin in the House of Commons shortly after 12:30 GMT on Tuesday.
The exact start time can vary slightly depending on parliamentary business earlier in the day, but it typically begins early afternoon.
What Happens During the Spring Statement?
The Spring Statement is delivered by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in the House of Commons.
During the speech, the Chancellor will:
- Provide an update on the UK economy
- Outline the government’s fiscal position
- Announce any tax or spending measures
- Respond to updated economic forecasts
Although traditionally smaller than the Autumn Budget, the Spring Statement can still contain important policy announcements.
When Is the OBR Forecast Published?
Once the Chancellor finishes speaking, the Treasury will publish the latest forecast from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR).
The OBR is independent of the government and is responsible for producing:
- Economic growth forecasts
- Inflation projections
- Borrowing estimates
- Public debt outlook
- Fiscal sustainability analysis
These forecasts are closely watched by businesses, economists, and financial markets because they shape future tax and spending decisions.
Why Is the OBR Forecast Important?
The OBR forecast helps determine whether the government is:
- Meeting its fiscal rules
- On track to reduce borrowing
- Facing pressure to raise or cut taxes
Even if the Spring Statement does not introduce immediate tax changes, the OBR’s projections can signal future policy direction.
For business owners and investors, this can influence:
- Hiring plans
- Dividend decisions
- Investment timing
- Tax planning strategy
Why Is the OBR Forecast Being Published Differently This Year?
In previous years, the OBR has typically published its own reports independently.
However, last year an error led to the OBR’s analysis being released mistakenly before the Chancellor had delivered her Budget speech in Parliament.
This premature release caused significant controversy and led to the resignation of the OBR’s chairman, Richard Hughes.
Following a security review, the government confirmed that the OBR’s March forecast will now be published by the Treasury via the official gov.uk platform immediately after the Chancellor’s speech concludes.
This change is intended to prevent further early disclosures.
What Happens After the Chancellor’s Speech?
Once the Chancellor has delivered the Spring Statement:
-
The OBR forecast is published.
-
The opposition responds.
The official response is typically delivered by:
- The Leader of the Opposition, or
- The Shadow Chancellor
In this case, the response is likely to come from either:
- Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, or
- Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride
This reply allows the opposition to critique the government’s economic performance and policy direction.
How Long Does the Spring Statement Last?
The Chancellor’s speech usually lasts between:
- 45 minutes and 1 hour
However, the full parliamentary session — including the opposition response and debate — will run longer.
Where Can You Watch the Spring Statement?
The Spring Statement is broadcast live via:
- BBC Parliament
- Major news channels
- Parliament TV
- The UK Parliament website
The OBR forecast and supporting documents will be available shortly after the speech ends on gov.uk.
Why the Timing Matters for Businesses
For business owners, the timing is important because:
- Tax changes can sometimes take effect immediately
- Financial markets often react during the speech
- Dividend and remuneration planning may need adjustment
Even where there are no headline tax increases, announcements about future policy changes can affect planning decisions.
Quick Summary
- Start time: Shortly after 12:30 GMT on Tuesday
- Location: House of Commons
- OBR forecast: Published immediately after the speech via gov.uk
- Opposition response: Delivered after the Chancellor finishes
