This month’s top stories include an explainer on the basis period reform, a summary of the key tax policies from the main parties’ general election 2024 manifestos; and HMRC reminds taxpayers about roll-over relief claims.

Public sector net debt increased by £49bn in May from £2,694bn to £2,743bn, 51% higher than it was in March 2020 at the start of the pandemic.

This week’s chart is on manifesto costings, illustrating the scale of each party’s promises and how they expect to fund them.

In the run up to the general election politicians and journalists will often talk about the 'public balance sheet', but what is it and what does it mean for people and businesses? ICAEW experts offer this simple guide on the public balance sheet – the government’s assets and liabilities – why they matter and the future outlook.

South Gloucestershire Council shares how local knowledge and creative thinking will help you put together a killer bid for ESG grants and why sustainability and financial benefits don’t need to be mutually exclusive.

Journalists and politicians often talk about 'the deficit', but what is it? ICAEW experts describe what this public finance shortfall is and what it means for businesses and people.

Big rows over small pledges risk missing wider uncertainties – including a potential £12bn black hole in public finances, Resolution Foundation warns.

Our chart this week is on the labour market, breaking down the employment status of the 55.1 million adults aged 16 or over in the UK.