Story perspectives

OBR's Richard Hughes Resigns Amid Forecast Leak Controversy

12/3/2025

Summary

Story summary

Richard Hughes resigned from the UK's Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) after leaks misrepresenting its forecasts.
Prof. David Miles told MPs that the OBR had raised concerns about these leaks.
The OBR's forecasts indicated a challenging fiscal outlook.
Miles dismissed misconceptions about the OBR's independence and forecasting methods.
The agency's credibility must be restored amid ongoing scrutiny from the government and the public.

History

Historical Context

Established in May 2010 by the Cameron-Clegg coalition government, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) aimed to provide independent economic forecasts for the UK. Initially criticized for potential bias, the OBR has undergone several reviews to enhance its credibility. Recent leaks misrepresenting its forecasts have reignited concerns about its independence, highlighting the ongoing challenges in maintaining public trust in fiscal oversight.

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Story summary

Richard Hughes resigned from the UK's Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) after leaks misrepresenting its forecasts.
Prof. David Miles told MPs that the OBR had raised concerns about these leaks.
The OBR's forecasts indicated a challenging fiscal outlook.
Miles dismissed misconceptions about the OBR's independence and forecasting methods.
The agency's credibility must be restored amid ongoing scrutiny from the government and the public.

1 / 2