Look-ahead to the Budget on Wednesday

Philip Hammond's budget delivery comes amid economic challenges and Brexit uncertainties. Despite previous predictions of a surplus, the UK faces a deficit until 2022. The budget focuses on cautious spending, with potential allocations for social care and health. Investments in R&D, AI, and 5G aim to boost productivity. Hammond must balance deficit reduction with economic protection during Brexit, a task that has eluded past chancellors.

What was the initial prediction for the UK's budget surplus before the Brexit vote?

• A surplus by 2021

• A surplus by 2019

• A surplus by 2018

• A surplus by 2020

Which area is expected to receive significant investment to boost productivity?

• Defense

• Healthcare

• Education

• Research and Development

What new strategy is the Chancellor likely to announce to improve connectivity?

• A new broadband strategy

• A new satellite strategy

• A new 5G strategy

• A new 4G strategy

What is one of the main challenges for the Chancellor during Brexit?

• Boosting tourism

• Increasing taxes

• Reducing the deficit while protecting the economy

• Cutting public spending

Why is boosting productivity considered difficult despite investments?

• Insufficient technology

• Previous failures by other chancellors

• Lack of skilled workers

• High inflation rates