Conservatives run massive October deficit as election approaches

The overspend can be put down to preparations for no-deal Brexit, but some doubt parties’ campaign pledges are fiscally responsible

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 07: Sajid Javid delivers a speech on the Conservative Party's plans for the economy at the Airport Runway Visitor Park at Manchester Airport on November 7, 2019
Sajid Javid delivers a speech on the Conservative Party's plans for the economy on November 7, 2019
(Image credit: 2019 Getty Images)

Last month saw the Government run the highest October budget deficit in five years, borrowing far more than was expected, even before the spending increases promised in the current election campaign manifestos go into effect.

Treasury borrowing unexpectedly jumped to £11.2 billion last month, £2.3 billion higher than October 2018, according to data from the Office for National Statistics.

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William Gritten

William Gritten is a London-born, New York-based strategist and writer focusing on politics and international affairs.